WESTBURY Town Council is leading by example as they aim to reduce their use of single-use plastics in the hope that it will encourage the town.
Inspired by the progress made in other local areas, last year cllr Jane Russ set her targets on encouraging the community to go beyond what is on offer from Wiltshire Council’s recycling services and make a difference for the environmental future of Westbury and beyond.
A year later, the town council is committed to making better choices when it comes to their buying decisions and plastic use.
Deborah Urch, town clerk said, “As a town council we are actively trying harder to improve on our recycling levels. It’s harder as a business because there is no roadside collections, we have to pay to get it removed.
“But, we are replacing plastic cups with glasses where we can, recycling cardboard and are 100% putting our support behind the initiative.
“Where we can, we will be making changes including watching the purchases we make and the packaging it comes in – it’s about setting the right example. If everyone else can do the same, it would be great for Westbury.
“We have just signed off on getting Westbury Town Council an electric van in place of the current petrol one. It may cost a little bit more money, but will have a huge impact on the carbon footprint of the council.”
Cllr Jane Russ said, “We have a plastic free group made up of interested councillors, including myself Nick Pyne and Josh Charles, who are still looking into ways in which we can reduce waste. We’ll let you know as we develop new plans, but I would like to bring your attention to the scheme that cosmetic company ‘Lush’ have introduced.
“You are able to recycle bottle top lids, that are currently not recycled by Wiltshire Council, by sending them freepost. Just pop them in the envelope or box with: Freepost LUSH GREENHUB, or drop them into your local store.
“I am also still actively reducing my own plastic waste and encourage everyone to do it too.”
Cllr Josh Charles said, “I think the mission for Westbury to go plastic free is great and should be supported. I think the Town Council are making bold steps to lead by example, with such purchases like the electric van.
“It was great to see so many residents out and about during our last litter pick. It’s just a shame that we collected over 30 bags of rubbish! I’d like to get to the point where we collect fewer and fewer bags and call that a success. A big thank you to those residents who came out to support, and to the residents I spoke to who would be interested in taking part in the future.
“What struck me most was how much waste was in the streams. I would like to explore ways we can start clearing the streams of litter and, if possible, promote a healthy and thriving ecosystem.
“I would also encourage anyone interested about hearing more about our litter picks to get in touch with the town council for more information and to register their interest.”
