Aim to boost recycling is a jumbo tusk

THE Scottish Government has launched a "tusk" force with the help of a 10ft blue elephant to urge Capital residents to recycle.

The inflatable animal threw its weight behind the Zero Waste campaign while visiting the National Galleries of Scotland as part of a tour to encourage youngsters to recycle.

Along the way it met pupils from Royal Mile Primary School, who are among thousands of city children who have boosted recycling figures. The rate rose to 30 per cent last year from 20 per cent in 2004.

However, the average family still bins its weight in rubbish, around 260 kilos, every year.

Headteacher Nicky Johnston said: "I'm positive this campaign will spur more people on to follow the reduce, reuse and recycle message."