BUSINESSES in Shepway are being invited to do their bit for the environment and save money at the same time. A new paper recycling scheme has been launched for small businesses in the district which will involve firms initially receiving 10 free clear degradable bags to get them started. Further bags will be available later, at a nominal cost.

By putting all office paper, newspaper, magazines and junk mail into the bags for recycling, businesses will reduce their trade waste - and thus save money. The clear bags will be picked up on the usual weekly Cleanaway round, free of charge.

Nicola Coles, of Environmental Campaigns South East, or ENCAMS, said: "This initiative will not just benefit businesses in Shepway but it will also help to address the litter problem in Kent and help to improve the local environment."

The scheme is being run by ENCAMS in partnership with Cleanaway, the Shepway Business Centre and Shepway District Council. ENCAMS is an amalgamation of the former Tidy Britain Group and Going for Green, which have ceased to trade and will eventually become dormant companies.