The first automated recycling centre at a Scottish supermarket was today opened by Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and the Environment, Richard Lochhead.

The revolutionary facility at Tesco Extra, Shettleston, makes recycling quicker, easier and more convenient as shoppers can recycle a variety of materials in the same machine.

Items accepted include cans, plastic and glass. Waste is then crushed and compacted on site resulting in fewer lorry collections, reducing carbon emissions.

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Under Tesco's current promotion, recyclers will receive one Green club card point for every two aluminium cans recycled.

Cabinet Secretary for the Environment, Richard Lochhead said: "I am delighted to open this automated recycling centre and try out this new facility for myself.

"Tesco's commitment to encouraging their customers to recycle is to be applauded and I am pleased to hear of plans to introduce this facility to further stores."

Tesco spokesperson, Louise Goodland said: "Recycling is a key issue for our customers and as a responsible retailer we are committed to helping our shoppers adopt green habits.

"They have asked us to make recycling easier, more fun and more convenient and this is what the new automated machines are designed to do for the whole community."

(GK/JM)