BUSINESSES in Cumnock in Doon Valley are being encouraged to join Scotland’s Recycle Week in a bid to increase local recycling.

Zero Waste Scotland is calling on local authorities, businesses and organisations in the region to sign up and become ‘waste warrior’ ambassadors for the nationwide campaign which runs from September 25 to October 1.

Despite significant progress in recycling in Scotland, 60 per cent of household waste sent to landfill could still be recycled.

Zero Waste Scotland is encouraging local authorities and businesses in Cumnock and Doon Valley to use Recycle Week to highlight the benefits of recycling with their employees and members by promoting ways in which every person they can do their bit.

The Scottish Government’s Environment Secretary, Roseanna Cunningham, said: “By recycling more we can all help protect our environment and relieve pressure on scarce raw materials.

“Scotland has an ambitious target to reduce waste, with no more than five per cent of all waste to go to landfill by January 2021 and 70 per cent of waste recycled or prepared for reuse by 2025.

“Events such as Recycle Week highlight how easy it can be for individuals and businesses to play their part and keep products and materials in valuable use for longer.

“Greener living has benefits for us all.”