National performance figures on waste disposal issued by DEFRA (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) have revealed City of York Council is in the top ten in three categories.

York is rated the third best unitary authority for reducing the waste going to landfill per household with an 18 per cent reduction over the last year.

In addition, the council has been ranked seventh for the most improved recycling/composting rate, with a 15.9 per cent improvement.

The council has also been listed as the seventh best council for diverting waste from landfill, with a 13 per cent improvement on last year.

"This is a tremendous achievent," said Terry Collins, director of Neighbourhood Services. "We have just announced breaking the 40 per cent recycling barrier and this is just further evidence that we are continuing to improve the way we recycle and dispose of waste."