Government yesterday revealed it has shipped eight containers of e-waste to a certified environmental protection agency in the US.

Speaking at a press conference, Minister of Works & Engineering, Derrick Burgess announced Bermuda is to recognise Recycle Week with events next Monday to Friday designed to remind the public about the importance of recycling.

"Recycle Week serves three purposes: to create greater awareness of Bermuda's recycling programmes, an opportunity for the Ministry to reward the public for participating in our recycling programmes, and to announce our new Participating Retailers Recycling Programme," he stated.

During the week, residents are invited to tune into Power 95, Mix 106 or Hott 107.5 for a chance to call in and win prizes.

There is also a blue bag recycling contest – contestants just have to label their bags with their phone number and could win dinner for two.

Primary. secondary and middle school students who participate in an aluminium can drive will be given a Bermuda cedar tree courtesy of Save Open Spaces. Schools which collect the most cans will receive $1000 in prize money from the Ministry.

At the end of Recycle Week, there will be an E-waste drop off day at the recycling plant at the Government quarry in Bailey's Bay.

Members of the public can drop off computers and other electronic items to be recycled. There will also be public tours of the plant at 10 a.m. and 12 noon

The first 50 families to arrive for tours will receive a free pass to visit the Bermuda Aquarium, Museum & Zoo.

Mr. Burgess also announced another initiative, the Participation Retailer Recycling Programme.

Cell phone and battery recycling will be targeted in its first phase, with bins prominently displayed for drop-offs.

The Minister also reminded the public to refer to the 'what goes where' section of the telephone directory whenever unsure about how to dispose of a particular item.