Grand reward for tower block recyclers

Residents who live in high rise flats in east Leeds are being given an incentive to recycle more each month as part of a new competition.

In order to boost recycling amongst residents who live in high rise flats, Leeds City Council has arranged a monthly competition ‘Green Up’ - with an opportunity to win a £1000 communal prize or £10 individual vouchers.

The winning block for April was Denbigh Heights and Croft in Gipton who have chosen the £1,000 communal reward – which the residents will put towards environmental improvements, charity or a social activity.

Residents from the winning block received their prize from Councillor Al Garthwaite this week.

Green Up is a recycling competition between seven tower blocks in east Leeds: Barncroft Heights, Barncroft Towers, Barncroft Grange, Barncroft Court, Denbigh Heights, Denbigh Croft and Roxby Close. Residents can choose to take part to be in with a chance of winning the communal prize of £1,000 or £10 individual shopping vouchers for each participating household. Residents can still sign-up to be included in next month’s draw.

Councillor, Al Garthwaite, lead member for environments, said:

“What a great scheme to encourage Leeds residents to recycle. The winning flats have pulled together extremely well and have been rewarded for their efforts.”

In one month 92 flats increased their weekly recycling by 78 kg on average, which is equivalent to the weight of over 150 bags of sugar being diverted away from the black bin.Green and glass communal bins were monitored and weighed by Waste & Recycling Advisors before being emptied and checked to make sure the correct materials were being recycled.