Free family fun day to help boost recycling

It’s all part of Islington Council’s efforts to help create a greener, healthier borough by boosting its recycling rate.

The free event, which will take place on Sunday, 15 June from 2pm to 5pm at the Jean Stokes Community Centre, is open to all and includes:

• Crafting sessions, using repurposed materials to create decorations for the upcoming Cally Fest
• An eco-themed quiz and talks from Islington Climate Centre, with prizes
• A “play it again” toy repair stall, to breathe new life into old toys
• Free food waste caddy giveaways, to support at-home waste reduction
• Smoothie-making workshops, using unwanted fruit and veg
• Expert advice on recycling, reusing, and sustainable living
• Face painting and family-friendly fun.

Titled “Protect the Planet Fun Day”, the event is part of a collaboration between the council and Islington Climate Centre and is part of the Cally Circular Food Programme, supported by ReLondon.

In recent years, Islington Council has improved recycling facilities in estates across the borough as part of a £2million investment, has rolled-out food waste recycling to blocks of flats, and has used technology to better track tonnage and make sure waste is going in the right places.

Local people have told the council that confusion remains about what can and can’t be recycled. So, the event is part of a push to help ensure that the right materials are going in the right bins, and to provide greater confidence and clarity about the process.

Cllr Rowena Champion, Islington Council’s Executive Member for Environment, Air Quality, and Transport, said: “We know that people in Islington care deeply about the environment, but recycling can sometimes feel confusing.

“This fun day is about making things simpler, and supports the extensive work we’ve done and are doing as a council to give local people the tools, tips, and confidence they need to recycle more and waste less.

“Every small action adds up, and together we can make a real difference for our borough and for the planet.”

Caz Royds, from Islington Climate Centre, said: "At the Islington Climate Centre we care a lot about waste, so we’re really looking forward to this event.

"We believe recycling food waste is something we can all do that connects us to the climate crisis - it means we’re helping in a small but very important way.”