Mid Devon District Council has achieved its highest-ever ranking for waste and recycling performance, thanks to the continued efforts of residents to reduce waste and recycle more.

For the year 2023/24, the district council recorded a recycling rate of 57.9%, placing it 11 out of 197 local authorities. Mid Devon also achieved a non-recyclable waste figure of 307.8kg per household, ranking ninth and placing the district within the top 5% of local authorities nationwide.

These latest figures build on last year’s success, where Mid Devon achieved its previous all-time high of a 55.4% recycling rate and saw a significant reduction in non-recyclable waste.

Since the introduction of the district’s three-weekly waste collection service in October 2022, recycling rates have improved by more than 7%, clearly demonstrating the success of the scheme.

Matthew Page, Head of People, Performance & Waste, said:

“We are incredibly proud of the progress we have made, and we couldn’t have done it without the commitment of our residents. Your efforts to sort waste correctly, reduce what you throw away, and support our initiatives have made a real difference.”

Mid Devon’s efforts have also been recognised nationally, with the Council shortlisted for the prestigious National LGC Environmental Services Award.

The Council remains committed to continuous improvement, with ongoing initiatives and trials aimed at further boosting recycling rates and reducing waste.