Supermarkets and other retailers have left out cardboard boxes for people to pop in their Christmas cards. The cards are later mashed, cut and re-used as part of a mass recycling initiative.
Among the stores taking part include Marks & Spencer, WH Smith, Tesco, Morrisons and Sainsbury's.
The eco idea, backed by environmental groups Forestry Stewardship Council and The Woodland Trust, is running throughout the month and taking part is easy.
Simply show up with used and unwanted Christmas cards, slip them in the box and they will be recycled.
Morrisons in Stamford reckons it may have broke the 1,000-card barrier this year.
Personnel manager Alex Clark said: "It's an easy way to make a difference with an environmental contribution."
Sainsbury's in Bourne, which is also collecting used stamps for Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire Air Ambulance, has experienced a tremendous response.
Store manager Paul Bryan said: "So far we have been overwhelmed by the numbers of cards that our customers are bringing into store."
Lisa Kirstein, service manager at Tesco in Oakham, added: "We've enjoyed a great response.
"People are coming in all the time to ask about the collection."
l The Mercury is still collecting used stamps on behalf of Stamford St Martin's Rotary Club, which is raising funds for the Leprosy Mission. They can be left at our office in Sheep Market, Stamford.