Liberal Democrat MSP for Edinburgh South Mike Pringle MSP has urged Scots to cut down on waste this Christmas.

Mr Pringle is calling for a concerted effort to minimise food waste, recycle packaging, old Christmas trees and wrapping paper.

Commenting on Christmas Eve, Mr Pringle said:

“A leading waste website estimates that an extra 750 million bottles and glass containers and 500 million drink cans are used over the festive season. It’s up to us to make sure that we recycle more over the festive season.

“There are many excellent schemes in place to help us recycle festive waste. The Woodland Trust recycled 73.6 million cards last year. Many local authorities offer Christmas tree recycling schemes, where old trees are put through the chipper and used to surface paths and playgrounds.

“Recycling also extends to unwanted presents. Duplicate or unwanted gifts will find a welcome home in charity shops, hospitals and children’s homes across the country.

“We all have a responsibility to waste less and recycle more this Christmas.”