A KERBSIDE collection service for recycling small electricals has been launched across Solihull.
Solihull Council hopes residents will get behind the drive and recycle their unused or broken small electricals that have a plug, battery or cable which in turn can be turned into an array of things from children’s playgrounds to life-saving equipment.
HypnoCat – a pink fluffy mascot – is set to spread the message across the borough to residents on how and where they can recycle their items on leaflets, lorry sides, banners, social media and at local recycling centres.
This is one of over 40 UK projects funded by Material Focus, the not for profit leading the Recycle Your Electricals campaign, who have provided £45,000 for the new service.
Solihull Council estimates that it will collect and recycle at least seven tonnes of small electrical items through the collection service.
Councillor Ken Hawkins, cabinet member for Environment and Infrastructure, said: “This is a fantastic new initiative for Solihull which by recycling electricals will help save the planet’s valuable raw materials like gold, copper, aluminium and steel, and help us reach our net zero carbon targets.
“We’re always looking for ways to make doing the right thing easier for our residents and this really couldn’t be any easier. Residents can just book a collection for free online and then leave their small electricals bagged up and ready for collection.
“We’ll be reminding residents about the new service throughout the month with eye-catching posters and social media featuring HypnoCat – the Recycle Your Electricals mesmerising pink, fluffy mascot.”
The aim of the nationwide Electricals Recycling Fund is to significantly reduce e-waste and its environmental impact by making it easier for consumers to recycle their electricals.
Scott Butler, executive director of Material Focus, said: “We are pleased to support Solihull’s kerbside collection of small electricals that addresses the pressing issue of e-waste.
“By investing in improved collection and drop-off services and exploring new recycling methods, we are taking a significant step towards creating a more sustainable future by making it easier for 10 million more people to recycle their electricals.”
Collections will be made through a bookable service which can be accessed via the council’s contact centre, by phone, or here.
