From Liz Waugh, Exeter 383654, November 28,2007

The latest set of recycling figures from Defra show that Devon has retained its position as one of the top three recycling counties in England.

Out of 120 authorities, Devon recycles 45.8% of its waste, making it the third most successful in the country. Teignbridge was also cited as being one of the top 10 regions for recycling and composting, green recycling and having some of the lowest amounts of waste per household.

The County Council has been working with district and unitary councils to promote recycling with the award winning 'Don't let Devon go to waste' campaign. It has helped to create a dramatic increase since 2003, when levels stood at only 22%.

Local celebrities Kirstie Allsop and Rik Mayall have been encouraging Devon residents to compost more of their kitchen waste, swap plastic bags for cotton or re-usable carriers and other ways to cut the amount of waste going to landfill.

"We are very pleased that we have continued to maintain our recycling achievements," said Margaret Rogers, Executive Member for Environment. "More and more people are realising that we have to start reducing the amount of waste going to landfill for the sake of the environment - and the economy. We must meet our landfill targets or face fines, which is not an acceptable prospect for anyone, but I am impressed by the way that the people of Devon who wish to help the environment have co-operated to help Devon retain its place close to the top of national local authorities.

"With Christmas on the horizon, there are plenty of ways everyone can help to make the festivities greener and their bins a little lighter. Composting kitchen waste will give your garden a treat in the new year, whilst buying recycled wrapping paper, presents and cards can help to conserve precious resources. Our local recycling centres can help you recycle everything from your Christmas empties to the old tree, so let's make it a very merry green Christmas!"

More information about how to reduce waste can be found on www.recycledevon.org

Note to Editors:

Cllr Rogers can be contacted on 01297 680384