A CHRISTMAS card recycling campaign has gained the support of Queensland Senator Russell Trood.

The Cards 4 Planet Ark campaign encourages people to recycle unwanted Christmas cards so they can be made into paper products.

The campaign has recycled more than 550 million cards and envelopes since 1993.

More than 100 million cards were posted in Australia in 2006.

Mr Trood said people could recycle their cards at participating Coles and Australia Post stores until the end of the month.

"Australians love receiving Christmas cards but most are thrown in the bin or stored at the bottom of the cupboard," the Forest Lake-based senator said.

"Many people don't realise their greeting cards are a potential resource that industries can use to make new products.

"This campaign gives people the opportunity to recycle the cards and do something positive for the environment."

For more information, visit www.planetark.com.au.

Source: South West News