The campaign centred on an AI-generated short film featuring the “Wasteaters”, a fictional group of waste-munching characters shown working alongside Biffa’s red collection vehicles over Christmas.
The film is designed to highlight the role of waste and recycling services during one of the busiest times of year for the industry. It was developed in partnership with Cogent.
The Wasteaters characters – including Willow, Whitney and Wes – will also appear on some of Biffa’s vehicles across the UK during the festive period.
Michael Shenton, Biffa Driver and Wasteater Operator, commented: “I’ve been driving a Biffa truck for three years, and seeing the Wasteaters featured in a Christmas recycling campaign is brilliant.
“These trucks aren’t just part of my job, they’re part of the community.
“It’s great to show people the work we do – week in week out – to keep the streets clean, while everyone is enjoying the festive holidays.”
Christmas waste spikes
The initiative came as the sector once again faces the annual spike in Christmas-related waste.
Biffa estimated that the UK generates more than three million tonnes of additional waste over the festive season, around 30% more than usual.
This included approximately 230,000 tonnes of food waste, millions of uneaten Christmas meals, as well as 114,000 tonnes of plastic packaging.
Other seasonal waste streams include an estimated 227,000 miles of wrapping paper and around one billion Christmas cards.
Georgia Gibson, Biffa’s Social Value Manager, added: “Christmas is a time for giving, and we’re proud to give back by helping communities recycle more and waste less.
“The Wasteaters bring this message to life in a fun, engaging way – and remind us that sustainability starts at home.”
40% increase in collections
For waste collection and recycling operators, these figures translate into a sustained operational challenge.
Biffa reported that total waste collections increase by around 40% over Christmas, driven largely by higher volumes of cardboard and glass.
Across its UK network, the company processes up to 66,000 tonnes of recyclables during the four-week festive period, with a 40% uplift concentrated around the fortnight spanning Christmas and New Year.
At Biffa’s Edmonton materials recycling facility (MRF) in north London, the seasonal spike alone adds an extra 2,000 tonnes of material.
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