The contract with Grundon is in line with new Welsh government regulations which began on 6 April and specified the separate collection and recycling of aerosols.
The new agreement is an extension of an existing partnership which, in the last four years, has seen Blaenau Gwent council recycle two million aerosols, with Powys county council recycling a further 100,000.
Grundon’s aerosol recycling facility is said to enable “every single part” of the aerosol to be recovered or recycled, with the propellant gases repurposed for use in other industries, such as air-conditioning and refrigeration systems, while the metal canisters and plastic casings are sent for recycling or reprocessing. Grundon has said that, to date, over 200 tonnes of valuable metal have been recycled.
The Blaenau Gwent council contract is worth around £75,000 a year, while the Powys county council is some £5,000 per annum.
Deputy leader counsellor Helen Cunningham, cabinet member for place and environment, said: “By working in partnership with Powys county council, we have been able to find an environmental solution to aerosol recycling that conforms to the new Welsh government legislation that begin on 6 April.
“Aerosols need to be recycled safely as they often contain hazardous substances and gases. This joint working arrangement allows Blaenau Gwent to conform to the regulations and adhere to our sustainability targets.”
Leading the way
Paul McConaghy, Grundon’s commercial manager, hazardous waste, said: “We’re delighted to have extended our partnership with Blaenau Gwent council and Powys county council to continue recycling the thousands of aerosols that are thrown away every day from households across South Wales.
“By doing so, they have shown they have led the way ahead of the new legislation. Our capability to recycle or repurpose every part of aerosols supports the circular economy by ensuring nothing is wasted and assists the councils in meeting their sustainability goals while remaining at the forefront of environmental progress.”
To find out more about changes in the sector, visit the Larac Wales Conference on 9 July. To book tickets to attend or for more information please click here.
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