WIREDGOV

Ceredigion Recycling and Furniture Team (CRAFT) have been singled out for praise byNatural Resources Minister Carl Sargeant during a visit there.

The Aberystwyth based initiative re-uses and recycleshousehold goods and furniture, reducing waste and working with the local community, care organisations and charities to provide affordable furniture.

Since 1995, they have diverted around 500 tonnes of furniture from landfill, employing 30 people and providing training, work experience and apprenticeships to countless more.

The Welsh Government has been clear in it's commitment to reducing waste, tackling climate change and promoting a green economy, not least through the recent Well Being of Future Generations Act. The Minister's visit was part of a week of activity for Recycle Week, and he was keen to outline how the work CRAFT are doing fits well with the Welsh Government's vision for a sustainable Wales.

He said:

"It's a real pleasure to see first hand the excellent work being done here by CRAFT. Through collecting unwanted everyday household items, they are providing affordable, sustainable furniture for local communities - creating jobs, apprenticeships and training in the process.

"Recycling rates in Wales are the best in UK and fourth best in Europe. We can be proud of the platform our outstanding recycling performance provides but it is something which must be built on if we are to see the sustainable, zero waste, green Wales which we are committed to delivering for our future generations.

"This scheme is a perfect example of the enormous economic and social benefits and opportunities that reducing and reusing waste can bring"