Lancaster firm '˜thrilled' at smashing zero waste to landfill target

Lancaster-based garage door and security manufacturer SWS UK have achieved their target of eliminating 70 tonnes of production waste in under three years.
Peter Bailey, SWS UK LtdPeter Bailey, SWS UK Ltd
Peter Bailey, SWS UK Ltd

The company embarked on a five year “zero to landfill” scheme in 2015 to reduce the large volume of production waste destined for landfill, which at its peak in 2008, was recorded as 70 tonnes.

Through increased recycling the firm saw a steady decrease in landfill waste which helped them achieve ISO 14001 accreditation in 2013 – the international standard for environmental management.

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The company, based in Hornby Road, Claughton, then introduced several more processes which aided further waste recycling, including the use of a bailer which condensed unused plastic, and a new method of recycling the plastic film, a material which is used to protect the slats delivered from the supplier.

By 2017, waste had decreased from 70 tonnes to 30 tonnes, and by the end of that year their waste contractor confirmed that everything would be fully recycled or sent away for use as fuel, with none going to landfill.

The company managed to smash its five year target to eliminate non-recyclable waste in under three years.

Peter Bailey, SWS UK’s quality and environmental manager, said: “Securing the ISO 14001 standard was an important step in cementing our commitment to responsible environmental management, and we are thrilled that we have been able to take this even further by completely eliminating any production waste, which previously would have been destined for landfill.”

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Now the ultimate recycling goal has been achieved, SWS UK say they are determined to maintain their claim of ‘zero to landfill’ for their production waste. Peter added: “We are extremely proud of our achievement and are confident in ensuring that our landfill waste (from production) remains at zero.

“Any future contracts with waste management companies must adhere to our commitment of zero to landfill.”