Ever wondered where your plastic waste goes after collection? At Westminster City Council's Commercial Waste Services, we're committed to transparency in our recycling processes. Today, we're excited to share the journey of your plastic waste and demonstrate how your responsible waste disposal contributes to a more sustainable future.
The journey begins when your Dry Mixed Recycling (DMR) is collected from your business premises and transported to our recycling facility in Southwark. Here, advanced sorting technology and skilled workers separate various materials, with plastics being carefully isolated and directed to the specialised facility in Rainham for further processing.
At Rainham, an impressive array of sorting systems and technologies comes into play. Different types of plastics are separated based on their chemical composition and properties. One particularly interesting stream is polypropylene - commonly found in food containers, pots, and tubs. These materials then embark on another journey to Berry Global Group's facility in Leamington Spa, where they're transformed into new products, exemplifying the circular economy in action.
During our recent post-Christmas visit to the facility, we witnessed this remarkable process in action. The seasonal impact was clear as mountains of chocolate tubs - from festive favourites like Heroes - made their way through the sorting system. This seasonal surge highlights how our consumption patterns affect recycling streams and emphasises the importance of proper recycling, especially during peak periods.
The success of this sophisticated recycling chain relies heavily on businesses like yours making the right choices when disposing of waste. When you separate your plastics correctly, you're not just following protocol - you're contributing to a vital process that gives materials a second life and reduces the need for virgin plastic production.
Westminster City Council continues to work with industry-leading partners to ensure your waste is processed efficiently and sustainably. By understanding where our waste goes and how it's processed, we can all better appreciate the importance of proper waste segregation and recycling practices.
Together, we're building a more sustainable future for Westminster, one recycled plastic container at a time. Stay tuned for more insights into our waste management processes and tips on how your business can contribute to our city's environmental goals.
