Environment and charity benefit from textile recycling success

Following the introduction of bi-monthly doorstep textile collections last year by South Northamptonshire Council, residents across the district have helped the environment by recycling over 128 tonnes of textiles and in the process raised thousands of pounds for the Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance charity.

Every second month households in the district can fill an Air Ambulance collection sack with unwanted clothes and other textiles such as curtains, shoes, handbags, belts, and soft toys. Clothes in good condition are sent to the third world for reuse, whilst the remainder are recycled. Not only does this reduce the need for landfill space but with the Air Ambulance receiving £60 per tonne of textiles collected through doorstep recycling collections, this means that South Northamptonshire residents have helped raise an amazing £7,680 for the charity.

Councillor Rebecca Breese, Portfolio Holder for Environment at South Northamptonshire Council, said: “We hope the steady amount of textiles being recycled through the sack scheme can continue, raising lots of money for the Air Ambulance today. We’re pleased residents have taken to textile recycling with such enthusiasm and I would like to thank all our supporters across South Northamptonshire for donating to their Air Ambulance. “

Claire Marshall, Director of Fundraising at Warwickshire & Northamptonshire Air Ambulance, added: “These collections are not only a great way to recycle, but every donation really does make a difference and helps WNAA to keep on flying, and above, all saving lives.”

The next doorstep textile collections will be throughout October.

For more detailed information on collections please call 01536 480007 or for general enquiries contact South Northamptonshire Council on 01327 322344.