Residents of Craven have been asked to increase their recycling efforts and ensure materials are sorted correctly.
The appeal coincides with Recycle Week 2026, taking place between September 14 and September 20.
North Yorkshire Council is urging households to verify that all items placed in recycling containers are appropriate for collection, aiming to boost recycling performance and minimise landfill disposal.
Council leader Councillor Carl Les stated that millions of recyclable products across the United Kingdom are currently deposited in incorrect waste streams annually.
He explained that residents who take additional care with sorting can contribute to energy conservation, decrease refuse volumes and enable materials to be reprocessed into new goods rather than being discarded.
North Yorkshire households currently divert more than 42 percent of their waste from landfill, though council officials consider additional progress achievable through minor household adjustments.
To assist with the initiative, the authority is arranging activities during Recycle Week at Hawes on Tuesday and Catterick Garrison on Thursday, featuring Deo, a mascot modelled on a deodorant container.
Deo will attend both gatherings to assist with public engagement and respond to recycling enquiries.
The Hawes event is scheduled for Tuesday, September 15, at Hawes Market Place between 9.30am and 3pm.
The Catterick Garrison programme will occur on Thursday, September 17, at the Co-op in Colburn from 11.30am to 2.30pm.
Councillor Les indicated that attendees would receive guidance from the council’s waste management specialists, addressing common queries regarding appropriate container usage and processing procedures following collection.
He noted that straightforward modifications within households can yield meaningful outcomes and encouraged anyone seeking clarification on recycling practices to visit either venue.
The council also reminded residents that numerous materials qualify for kerbside collection, encompassing paper, cardboard, periodicals, envelopes with windows, food and beverage cartons, metal food and drink cans, empty metal aerosol containers, aluminium foil and trays, plastic bottles, pots, tubs and trays, plus glass jars and bottles.
Councillor Les observed that North Yorkshire residents already demonstrate commendable recycling habits, though continued improvement remains achievable.
He emphasised that correct bin usage across all households can substantially reduce waste destined for disposal while contributing to environmental protection.