CIWM launches competence test for Northern Ireland
The Chartered Institution of Wastes Management (CIWM) has launched a new Continuing Competence test for Northern Ireland.
CIWM reported that the test will become the new standard for demonstrating the technical competence of operators of waste management facilities across the country.
Until now, operators in Northern Ireland have taken the same test as those in England and Wales, however, CIWM and the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) have been working together to develop a new Continuing Competence assessment which takes account of any regional variations.
Commenting on the launch CIWM’s professional services project manager, Jacqui Brunton-Douglas, said: “The fact that the new Continuing Competence test for Northern Ireland incorporates any differences in working practices and legislation means it will provide an even more accurate and relevant demonstration of technical competence.
The NIEA has stipulated any company representatives who currently hold a valid Primary Competence must book and pass the Northern Ireland Continued Competence test by 1 April 2025 and those who currently hold a Continuing Competence test must pass the new Northern Ireland test prior to its expiry. On that basis, we would recommend that tests are booked well in advance to ensure they can be sat at a convenient location and time.”
Plantsea receives OPRL ‘Recycle’ label for seaweed packaging
Plantsea, a Welsh-based start up has received OPRL’s ‘Recycle’ label for its seaweed-based packaging.
PlantSea’s packaging is manufactured from seaweed-derived fibres blended with recycled and virgin paper fibres.
Alice Harlock, director of technical and member services at OPRL, said: “It is always exciting to see innovation and the successful application of novel materials in packaging. As businesses look to adapt or replace current packaging types to meet sustainability goals or legislation, OPRL is keen to support them with labelling that helps consumers make the right choices around recycling.”
Ekman Group acquires Allan Morris Recycling
The Ekman Group has announced it has acquired the Allan Morris Recycling, a welsh based waste management firm.
Ekman Group has reported that the Allan Morris Recycling business has been acquired in whole effective from 26 March 2024, and will operate as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ekman & Co AB, trading as Allan Morris Recycling.
Pankaj Chowdhary, managing director of Ekman Recycling, said: “We have been working with Allan Morris Recycling in recent years, and we have always been impressed with their professional and flexible approach to doing business. I am particularly pleased that Carl Robertson will remain within the business as its managing director, along with his key staff, whom we welcome with open arms and look forward to working with for many years to come”.
Grundon assists Woodoak farm
Grundon Waste Management gave a £20,000 grant to Woodoaks Farm in Hertfordshire to replace its barns doors.
Alongside the grant, the company also sent a group of volunteers to find out more about life on the farm. The volunteers spent time in the barn before being tasked with clearing a dell area in the nearby wood.
Kirsti Santer, head of marketing and communications at Grundon, said: “We had such a brilliant day volunteering and felt as though we really made a difference. All the volunteers were so passionate about their work and gave us lots of tips as we got to grips with the coppicing and clearing the woodland areas, we thoroughly enjoyed it and can’t wait to be part of the ongoing Woodoaks story.”
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