Want to donate to charity? Have you considered handing over your old crisp packets?
Milton Keynes-based George Thomson is the founder of Charity Recycling MK, and under his watch, your old snack wrappers get converted into cash for good causes.
Over the past five years George has taken in Tassimo discs and Nespresso L'or pods, instant jar lids, biscuit wrappers and similar items which aren't suitable for the recycling sacks.
And now crisp wrappers have been added to the list.
George is an approved drop-off point administrator for the ethical recycling company TerraCycle UK.
“The waste is used to make items like bins and garden furniture, that sort of thing,” George told Total MK.
“We should all be doing more than we are to solve the recycling problem.
"Everyone blames the companies for the waste, but we buy it. People never blame themselves!”
George receives no payment for his sterling work, but has raised thousands of pounds for charities in Milton Keynes - all the manufacturers whose products pass through George’s hands cover recycling costs and make goodwill donations.
In the past five years, his work has prevented tonnes of waste from being sent to landfill, and swelled the coffers of Willen Hospice and MK Cat Rescue by more than £15,000.
“Willen Hospice help so many people locally, and everyone knows the great job they do," George said.
"And MK Cat Rescue? They do tremendous work for stray cats locally. No-one there takes any payment of any kind. I was impressed by the dedication of the people who give their time for the cause.”
The majority of us can admit to munching on a packet of crisps, or nibbling a cheeky biscuit, but from this point forth, how about giving George the wrappers once you've finished rather than popping them in with the general waste?
Save your packets and drop them off at George's hub at 25 Cantle Avenue, Downs Barn MK14 7RJ or at any Willen Hospice charity shop.
Great Linford Parish Council also provide collection bins outside their premises during office hours.
All brands of crisps are accepted along with packaging from associated crispy snacks.
“This is the best way to donate to charity without it costing you a penny!” George added.
The value to those charities is huge, and to the environment, is priceless.
To find out more head to https://www.facebook.com/recyclemk
Never miss news or leisure info in Milton Keynes - Follow us on www.twitter.com/thisistotalmk
And on Facebook: www.facebook.com/thisistotalmk
