Christmas is the time when we can create a lot of extra rubbish - but there are lots of things you can recycle.
To make sure you're not contaminating your recycling bin and we can take it away, follow the tips below:
carrier/black bags: make sure all items in your blue bins are loose. We can't see into bags and don’t know if the bags contain recycling or general waste so won't take your bin.
trees:artificial trees need to be taken to the tip. Real Christmas trees can be recycled on January 4 at Westport Lake or January 6 at Parkhall Gold Course, or at the tips.
tinsel needs to go into the grey bin.
any polystyrene that comes with new TVs or appliances needs to go into the grey bin. It cannot be recycled
any leftover food over the Christmas period needs to go into the grey bin, not blue or brown. You can also use your leftovers to create new meals - why not go to Pinterest or LoveFood HateWaste to find some recipes?
nappies need to go in the grey bin
Christmas lights and other electrical items need to be taken down to the local tip. They cannot be put into the blue bin.
cards which have glitter, bows or other embellishments on will need to go in the grey bin. Regular Christmas cards without any sparkly bits can be recycled.
Make sure your festive parties don't impact the environment
If you're having a party or gathering around Christmas or New Year, don't forget to spare a thought for the planet by recycling as much as possible.
You can save yourself money by re-using wrapping paper for gifts next year. Christmas cards can be turned into tags for 2017 presents. Just drawn around a glass or cut with crimping scissors and thread some cotton through.
We all receive the occasional unwanted gift. Store them safely in a cupboard and regift them to someone who will like them or take them to a charity shop supporting your favourite good cause.
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