Cans are recycled in to trees

Aluminium cans recycled in Hertsmere have been recycled into trees planted in Africa and in the Borough.

Hertsmere Borough Council, in partnership with Hertfordshire’s WasteAware Partnership and Alupro, a not for profit recycling organisation, are donating a tree for every tonne of aluminium recycled through Hertsmere’s kerbside collections and at recycling points across the Borough.

Steve Burton, Head of Waste Management, said: “This is an exciting partnership which actively puts something back in to Hertsmere and allows us all to physically see how recycling aluminium cans is making a positive difference.

“Recycling in Hertsmere is actively supporting communities in Africa as well as closer to home, with trees planted in Farriers Way in Borehamwood and Willow Way in Potters Bar.”

“The number of aluminium cans which were recycled this year has almost doubled since last year, which suggests that this is a great incentive to get people recycling more,” said County Councillor Derrick Ashley, Executive Member for Planning, Partnerships and Waste.

“This increase illustrates people’s commitment to recycling and to protecting the environment and I’d like to thank everyone who has taken part, and to let them know that it really does make a difference. This year, 33 trees will be planted in the Gabio Forest in Africa, which will produce food and medicine for local people there. 

“It’s wonderful to know that every aluminium can we recycle here will not only help our local environment but will also contribute to the development of a sustainable forest in a parched area in Africa.”

During the last year, 330 tonnes of aluminium were recycled, compared with 170 tonnes in 2005.

The trees for Africa, to be grown from seed in the nurseries of the Gabio Forest in Burkina Faso, have been chosen for their medicinal uses and to encourage the production of honey, which will generate much needed income for local people. They will later be planted in village forests as well as on neighbouring land owned by individual families.

To find out more about local kerbside collections and recycling points visit www.wasteaware.org.uk or telephone 08457 425000 or visit the council’s website: www.hertsmere.gov.uk