The Council of the Isles of Scilly has unveiled a new recycling service, featuring reusable containers and a glass collection initiative.  

Set to launch in March 2025, the new initiative aligns with the council's Waste Reduction Strategy, aiming to reduce plastic waste and increase recycling and the range of material collected for recycling across the islands. 

Under the new service, residents and businesses on St Mary’s, St Martin’s, Bryher, and St Agnes will receive three types of reusable containers for sorting paper, cardboard, plastics, metals, and, notably, glass jars and bottles.  

The glass collection scheme, a first for the area, will be implemented on St Mary’s, with the council exploring possibilities for extending this service to St Martin’s. 

The introduction of these containers will not alter the frequency of waste collections, although collection days may be subject to change as usual.  

The council promises to communicate any schedule adjustments in advance. 

Investments have been made in a new recycling collection vehicle for St Mary’s, designed to collect segregated recycling directly from the reusable containers, thus eliminating the need for single-use plastic bags.  

The council expects these changes to encourage more glass recycling across the islands and reduce plastic waste. 

This approach will be replicated on the region's off-islands, where recycling will be emptied into separate receptacles. 

Council of the Isles of Scilly Environment, Environment Services and Climate Change lead member and councillor Harry Legg said: “Increasing levels of recycling and decreasing plastic waste are central to the council’s Waste Reduction Strategy and the changes we’re announcing today are important steps towards protecting our environment and making it easier for everyone to do their bit.

"I encourage anyone with questions to come along to our drop-in sessions or to complete the feedback form.”