Environment Minister Jane Davidson has praised Torfaen Council for becoming the best local authority for recycling in South Wales.
The council says it is now recycling 42 per cent of waste in the County Borough.
This is two per cent more than the Welsh assembly's 2009-10 recycling target of 40 per cent.
Minister Jane Davidson said: "All Welsh local authorities were set a target of 40 per cent recycling and composting by 2010. I would like to congratulate Torfaen for its hard work and its commitment to beating this target and achieving an impressive 42 per cent two years early.
"In addition to reducing the amount of residual waste that goes into landfill this is a fantastic achievement that also helps in the battle against climate change.
"Earlier this year, local authorities were given an extra £15 million in recycling grants which they were strongly advised to use.
"Food waste is an area of great potential and exploiting this will be essential if we are to continue to increase the amount of waste we recycle. This is an area where Torfaen is doing particularly well as it has had a food waste facility since March 2006.
"I have said that I would like to set a target of recycling and composting of 70 per cent by 2025 so I wish Torfaen lots of luck in meeting this new challenge."
Last month, to help celebrate the recycling record, the number 42 was made on the pitch at Pontypool Rugby Club using black recycling boxes and local youngsters.
The Welsh Assembly has also released new figures which show that Torfaen is one of the best Welsh authorities for diverting waste away from landfill.
Councillor John Cunningham, Torfaen County Borough Council's Executive Member for Operational Services, said "The recycling record, high praise from the Minister and new landfill figures underline how good recycling is in Torfaen.
"Again, I would like to thank residents for helping us achieve this."
The Council is now planning for the final rollout of its twin bin scheme which will include a further 7,000 homes in areas like Blaenavon and Abersychan.
Food and garden waste is collected on one week and household rubbish on the other.
Recycling is collected every week.