RECYCLING aluminium drinks cans could lead to more native trees being planted in County Durham during the coming months.

The landscape of the county could benefit from the offer of one tree to be planted for every tonne of aluminium cans recycled by the end of June.

Durham County Council and the district councils in the area are supporting a campaign being run by the Aluminium Packaging Organisation (Alupro).

It is hoped that the initiative could lead to an extra 35,000 trees being planted across the country, with at least several hundred of them being provided in County Durham.

Vicki Wooton, Durham County Council's waste minimisation officer, said: "We are having a big push on recycling throughout the county and we are pleased to support this initiative by the aluminium recycling industry.

"It's a great way of reminding people that recycling does make a difference."

The appeal is being organised and sponsored by Alupro in association with local councils.

Oliver Priestley-Leach, of Sedgefield Borough Council, said: "Trees earned by the borough's recyclers will be planted in local nature reserves, such as Bishop Middleham Wildlife Garden and Cow Plantation, in Spennymoor.

"So far we have secured 25 trees and our target is 100," he said.

Steve Freeman, of Alupro, said: "I am sure local people will get into the recycling habit and, at the same time, help to benefit the local environment.

"With kerbside recycling, it has never been easier to recycle and we challenge local people to take part.

"The more aluminium recycled, the more trees will be planted," he said.

Recycling aluminium cans can lead to 95 per cent energy savings, with drinks cans created from the reclaimed metal going back on the shelf within six weeks of the original product being consumed.