'Book bin' installed in Bermondsey

Books left in the recycling bins are collected by the READ International charity which ships them to Tanzania.

Lambeth introduced the book bins two years ago – including one in Waterloo – and now they have come to Southwark too.

Southwark Council and its recycling and waste partner Veolia have installed book bins at the Leathermarket JMB offices in Leathermarket Street and at the Aylesbury Estate housing office in Walworth.

"I get through lots of books and love the thought of them being put to good use," said Chris Medhurst, a recycling collector for Veolia in Southwark.

"It’s great to know that these books be provided to children in Tanzania where they will be read again and again."

Fabrice Bouchon, Veolia's general manager in Southwark, said: “Recycle Week is a great opportunity for us to shout about the wide range of materials that can be recycled in the borough, whether you are using your blue bin, clear bag or communal bin at home, or visiting the many recycling bring bank sites located around borough.

"We would like to encourage everyone to recycle as much as they can, not just during Recycle Week, but every week to help our environment and ensure that recyclable materials are being put to good use."

Cllr Darren Merrill, Southwark's new cabinet member for recycling and environment, said: "I am pleased to be supporting this READ International initiative as part of this year's Recycling Week.

"The scheme shows that recycling is not just great for the environment but can also be an altruistic gesture that helps children in poorer parts of the world. This is such a great cause and I hope all residents donate as much as they can."