Home Office pledge to tackle metal thefts
The problem of metal thefts was highlighted in an ITV investigation last month, with questions raised over acceptance procedures for material at scrap yards (see letsrecycle.com story). In a written answer to Labour backbencher Gordon Prentice, the Home Office junior minister Vernon Coaker said last week that the working group was currently looking at a “wide range of proposals for tackling the problem, which will include assessing the scope and effectiveness of current legislation”.
Mr Coaker said: “We are aware of the recent increase in thefts of metal such as copper, much of which is sold through scrap metal dealers. We are working closely with the police and the industries affected to develop plans to deal with these crimes.”
Edwards replaces Miles as Verdant MD
Mr Edwards has been promoted from his role as managing director of Verdant's commercial collection subsidiary, Southampton-based Waste Services (UK) Ltd. Previous to that role, he was development director for Verdant and had been working for the company since 2002, when it was known as Ecovert. Mr Edwards replaces Verdant co-founder and managing director Simon Miles, who has left the company “to pursue other interests”. Co-founder and former chairman Jon Miles continues as a non-executive director, the company said.
Ian Wakelin, chief executive of Greenstar UK, said: “Roger has been part and parcel of Verdant's success, and I'm delighted that he will now lead the business forward as part of Greenstar UK.” Mr Edwards added: “I am thrilled to be back and relish the challenge of expanding Verdant's reputation and presence in the local authority market.”
Consultancies form waste and biomass alliance
Consultancies Scott Wilson and Juniper have agreed to work together in delivering waste management and biomass renewables consulting services.
The companies, based in London and Gloucestershire respectively, said the partnership would allow them to provide a “broader range of advice and support to clients in this rapidly evolving field”. It puts together Juniper's expertise on technology risk with Scott Wilson's proficiency in engineering, environmental and planning issues. The two consultancies will continue to work separately, but will work together when clients request it.
Joe Schwager, managing director of Juniper, said: “Our clients increasingly want more than just advice on technology. They want our specialist knowledge but also practical advice on site related issues and project implementation. This new alliance with Scott Wilson will allow us to provide, jointly, that broader range of services.”
Billingsgate cuts polystyrene waste volumes
Billingsgate's landfill waste was collected and disposed every day but has now reduced to only twice a week since the installation, which was supported by a Defra grant. The machine, which is also used in the Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo, reduces polystyrene waste by 95% of its size by melting it on-site, as well as ridding the material odour and moisture to make it recycable.
Superintendent of the City of London's Billingsgate Market, Malcolm Macleod said: “Polystyrene boxes account for 80% of our waste. It took us 18 months to investigate and evaluate all the technologies available. We choose the ‘Clean Heat Packer' because it helps us reduce our carbon footprints, reduce our waste disposal costs and cease sending valuable resource material to landfill.”
Smurfit Kappa appoints regional manager
Smurfit Kappa Recycling has appointed Deborah Porter-Walker to be the company's commercial manager for the East Midlands region.
In her new role she will liaise with local authorities and enterprises across the region to develop the company's paper and board recycling collection business. Joining Smurfit Kappa Recycling from SITA UK, Deborah Porter-Walker brings over 14 years experience in waste management in the region. Prior to SITA, she also worked in waste management for Biffa.
George Johnson, Midlands regional operations manager at Smurfit Kappa Recycling said, “Deborah's industry knowledge and strong contacts mean she is superbly qualified to take on this new role. Our customers throughout the East Midlands will benefit from her skills and experience.”
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