ISLE of Wight residents are being encouraged to think outside the box and come up with innovative ways to increase recycling and reduce waste through a new survey.

The Isle of Wight Council's annual residents' recycling and waste online survey is now open.

Running until Friday, January 8, the study is an opportunity for householders across the Island to put forward suggestions for future improvements or ideas on how the Island can recycle more and reduce its waste.

Isle of Wight County Press:

Your feedback can be completed online via: https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/RecyclingWasteSatisfactionSurvey2020

Natasha Dix, the council's waste and environment manager, said: “The Island community has always given a great response to recycling and we cannot thank you enough for the effort each of you make to reduce, reuse and recycle more every year.

"As a council, we work hard to provide the best service we can for our community.

"We urge you to let us know how we are doing so we can serve you better.

“We’re already exceeding our 2020 recycling target of 55 per cent and are in the top 25 per cent of areas in the UK.

"We’re continuing to tackle issues, such as plastic pollution.

"Thanks to Island residents, recycling has now become part of our daily lives.”

The Isle of Wight Council is responsible for the collection, treatment and disposal of household recyclables and waste on the Island — delivered through a contract with Amey.

Once the closing date for the survey has passed, the information will be reviewed and used to identify possible improvements to existing services.

Unfortunately, no responses received after the closing date can be considered by the council.

Paper versions will be available, with direct requests for hard copies by email to waste.contract@iow.gov.uk, or via 823777.

Completed hard copies should be returned by the closing date to: Waste Management, County Hall, High Street, Newport, Isle of Wight PO30 1UD.

Cllr Steve Hastings, the council's cabinet member for environment, heritage and waste, was delighted with the progress being made on waste management.

"We’re doing well — and aim to do great when it comes to reducing waste, recycling material and composting food and green waste," he said.

"You can do more by ordering a second green bin, or start using a food caddy."

Green bins and food caddies are free to order online at www.iwight.com/waste, or by calling the number already provided.