COUNCIL RECYCLING PROJECT IS NAMED BEST IN UK

A city project that reuses, repairs and recycles damaged fridges, washing machines and other white goods that are then sold back into the community has been named the best in the UK.

Peterborough City Council's Electrical Appliance Recycling Project (EARP) which is a partnership between Peterborough City Council, Indesit Company and other key organisations was awarded the prestigious Electrical and Electronic Recycler of the Year and was shortlisted for the Best Partnership Project for Recycling at the National Recycling Awards 2008 at the Telford International Centre.

The aim of the project is to increase the city's recycling rates, encouraging regeneration of used electrical goods and providing a supply of affordable electrical appliances back into the community. Used or damaged white goods and computers are recycled either by repairing the items where possible or dismantling them and recycling the individual components.

Councillor Wayne Fitzgerald, cabinet member for environment, said: "To win this award is fantastic news and a testament to how the people of Peterborough have embraced this initiative since its inception in November 2004. The partnership between the city council and Indesit Company has created a unique project that increases our recycling rates and helps boost the city’s green credentials."