As recent arrivals in the "civilised world", we are confounded and deeply dismayed at the lack of recycling in the East Sussex area.

In Melbourne, it is the norm to separate one's household rubbish into three bins, two of which are destined for recycling (i.e. bottles and paper). These are all collected by the council.

In Australian supermarkets the evidence of this recycling is shown in the wide availability of recycled paper and glass products.

Awareness of the responsibility to protect the natural environment is far superior among the general public.

To buy bleached, unrecycled loo roll is considered a major faux pas, denoting ignorance and disrespect.

How little pride and organisation must English councils have to ignore environmental issues on such a huge scale?

If the community stood up and deigned to educate themselves on these issues, it would not take long for environmental sustainability to weave its way into our everyday lives, ensuring a more conscientious attitude and the decay of the disposable lifestyle.

-Peta Griggs and Dora Mills Lansdown Place, Lewes