To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister whether their Department is implementing any measures to increase recycling rates in buildings used by their Department or its arm's-length bodies.

The Executive Office (TEO) and its arm’s-length bodies adopt a number of measures to increase recycling rates, as follows:

TEO raises awareness through the publication of intranet articles and related briefings.

100% of the glass collected is sent to a contractor for recycling.

100% of the food waste collected goes to either Anaerobic Digestion or Composting.

Where possible, stationery items will be re-used rather than disposed of.

To reduce waste, plastic water cups have been replaced with recycled paper cups and reusable glassware provided in office kitchens.

Where possible, when items need to be replaced, they are replaced with recycled/sustainable items.

Recycling receptacles are placed throughout buildings to help reduce contamination and to make it easier for the contractor to separate and, where possible, recycle waste.