Can recycling focus at Notting Hill Carnival

More than 300 tonnes of waste was cleared from the streets of Notting Hill during this year’s Carnival which took place this bank holiday weekend (26-27 August). Kensington and Chelsea and contractor SUEZ are responsible for clearing 85% of the total waste produced over the course of the two-day event.

In previous years, restrictions around space, access and security have made recycling at Notting Hill Carnival a real challenge, Suez says, but a new stand on Portobello Green meant 2018 Carnival-goers could recycle their aluminium cans, plastic bottles and even food waste.

Revellers were able to put their cans in a giant, three-dimensional, ‘I love Notting Hill Carnival’ sign which was created by Every Can Counts (pictured above), which also provided an ideal selfie opportunity. Food-stall holders were also offered the opportunity to host a food waste bin on their pitch.

Clean-up

Crews began clean-up work after the crowds had dispersed late into the night and are required to have the waste cleared and streets cleaned by 6am on Tuesday morning.

200 members of SUEZ staff, together with 30 refuse trucks and mechanical sweepers worked throughout the night on both days so that Notting Hill returned to normal in time.

Cllr Gerard Hargreaves, Kensington and Chelsea Lead Member for Communities and Culture, said: “From the council’s point of view, the biggest challenge is the clean-up. This year has also seen a great increase in recycling. We want this to be a sustainable Carnival and I’m sure we will build on the opportunities for more recycling and reducing the use of single use plastic.”

Gary O’Hagan, SUEZ recycling and recovery UK Contract general manager said: “Over the many years we’ve been carrying out the Carnival clear up for the council, we’ve refined our approach and, thanks to meticulous planning and the hard work of our crews, we’re able to have the streets ready for Tuesday’s early morning commuters.  I’m delighted that this year, with the support of carnival-goers and stall-holders, we’re able to recycle more than ever before.”

The carnival footprint is divided into 14 sectors with each having its own supervisor, managing two or three collection crews and support units, and their role is integral to the planning process.

While the event itself spans the latter half of the August Bank Holiday weekend, preparation starts in the Spring. Monthly internal planning meetings consider essentials such as the carnival route and timing, the number of crews and types of equipment needed, food and drinks supplies on the night, and accommodation for those involved in the clear-up.

“Waste collection, as with most of the carnival arrangements, is very precise and timings are very tight,” Mr O’Hagan added. “Our crews can only move in when the crowds have left, the stalls have been packed away and the police are happy for the work to begin. There’s a tight deadline, too, with the roads having to be open for businesses, residents and traffic by 7am on Tuesday morning.”