Global Recycling Day: A Reminder to Put the Planet First
Established in 2018, Global Recycling Day celebrates the vital role recycling plays in preserving our planet’s resources and securing a sustainable future.
It’s a day for communities and businesses alike to put the planet first, but at Future Products, sustainability is a commitment that goes far beyond a single day.
Our Sustainable Partnership
For nearly 10 years, Future Products has partnered with Mansfield-based skip hire company AB Waste Disposal to ensure responsible waste management and environmental sustainability across our 67,000 sq. ft. factory.
Thom, Marketing Strategist at Future Products, says:
“As a business, it’s imperative that every step, from fabrication to waste management, is as sustainable as possible to reduce our carbon footprint. Partnering with our local waste experts, AB Waste, wasn’t a whim-it was a necessary step to make a real impact.”
This March, as part of our Global Recycling Day feature, we share how this long-standing partnership keeps our workplace safe, functional, and eco-friendly.
How AB Waste Manages Commercial Waste
Ever wondered what happens to commercial waste after it leaves your site? Stacey Adkins, Head of Sales at AB Waste Disposal, walks us through the process:
Stage 1: Pre-sorting
“When the waste first arrives at our transfer station, we tip it up for an initial inspection. Our recycling team carefully removes any large recyclable items before the rest of the waste moves into the sorting bays. From there, a grab loader feeds the remaining material into the hopper to continue the process.”
Stage 2: Screening
“The waste travels up a covered incline, and the belt covering helps contain dust and litter. It then enters the trommel screener, where inert soils and fine hardcore fall through into a holding bay below. These separated materials are sent for further treatment and recycling.”
Stage 3: Manual Sorting and Magnetic Separation
“As the waste moves along the conveyor belt, our trained recycling operatives pick out the remaining recyclables by hand, directing them into designated bins. Any ferrous metals are captured by a magnetic belt, ensuring nothing valuable is missed.”
Stage 4: Final Cleaning
“At the end of the system, an air knife blows back any remaining rubbish, leaving behind clean hardcore ready for recycling. This final step ensures the materials we recover are as pure and usable as possible.”
Every week, AB Waste collects and delivers a fresh 40 yd roll-on/roll-off skip to our Mansfield factory, equivalent to around 400 black bags being recycled weekly.
The Business Perspective
Sustainability is at the heart of Future Products’ values. From our first skip in September 2016 to today, our ongoing partnership with AB Waste has allowed us to operate responsibly, reduce our carbon footprint, and maintain a clean, safe, and compliant workspace.
Choosing a skip hire company that shares your sustainability values is fundamental for businesses looking to be compliant, responsible, and environmentally conscious. Research shows that sustainable businesses are more likely to thrive, attract customers, and reduce long-term costs.
Stuart Bower, MD at Future Products, adds the following: “For businesses like ours, the sustainability starts at the very beginning, for example, we use sustainably sourced timber from sustainably managed forests for our Solidcore Composite Door range– this means trees are replanted, and the forest is responsibly maintained.
The construction of the Solidcore door means it is built to last, which can lead to fewer replacements for your front door, reducing replacement waste. At the end of their lifespan, many of the door’s components can be recycled.
Composite doors provide energy-efficient insulation, meaning you may be reducing energy consumption- reducing your own environmental impact.”
Practical Tips for Businesses
If you’re new to recycling or sustainable practices, start with these simple steps:
Understand your waste: Track the type and volume of waste your business produces.
Consult the experts: Local waste management companies like AB Waste offer practical advice and solutions tailored to your needs.
Take action: Implement small changes gradually and aim for measurable improvements over time.
Sustainability doesn’t have to be complicated; sometimes, it’s as simple as partnering with the right people.
About the Author
Experienced Director with a demonstrated history of working in the construction industry. Skilled in Negotiation, Business Planning, Customer Service, Sales, and Business Development. Strong information technology professional.
