Our Unique Recycling Programme…

Our aim is to minimise the impact on the environment by recycling as much of the waste we handle as we possibly can.

At present we recycle an incredible 75%. Last year we managed to divert hundreds of tonnes of rubbish from landfill, whilst at the same time supporting local charities, voluntary organisations, other community interest companies.

How We Recycle…

Scrap wood, paint, tiles, bricks etc are all sorted and donated to a local training organisation (BLES) who offer a get ready for work programme for disadvantaged youths. These materials help the youngsters to develop skills in painting, joinery, tiling and bricklaying leading on to sustainable long term employment.

Furniture, white goods, household items and bric-a-brac are all donated to a local homeless charity (Homeaid) who use the goods to provide “home starter packs” for people moving on from homeless accommodation, they also help low income families by selling affordable furniture.

Books are recycled through Bookdonors who like ourselves are a successful community based social enterprise, all the money they earn is shared with their numerous charitable partners and they operate excellent employment initiatives to support disadvantaged people into long term sustainable employment, including people with learning difficulties, sensory impairments, mental illnesses, physical disabilities, long term unemployed and ex offenders.

Textiles are collected and bulked up at our depot. Nearly all the textiles sold to commercial buyers are directly exported, we partner instead with “non profit buyers” who retain more value in Scotland and meet wider social aims.

Cardboard, paper, plastics, glass, cans, and tins are recycled through one of our partner organisations Ace Recycling who are also a Social Enterprise. Through their excellent cash for communities scheme they provide training opportunities that assist those furthest from the labour market into employment.

Old fashioned furniture that is not popular in the UK and broken crockery is donated and sent to the USA to be recycled and re-used by charities there.

Duvets, blankets, soft toys and similar items are donated to West Calder Dogs Trust for all the doggies who don't have a permanent home.

Bikes are donated to Bike Station the largest recycler of bikes in Scotland who promote cycling through recycling. Bike Station are part of the reuse and repair network and are managed by CRNS (Community Resource Network Scotland).

Broken White Goods (Except fridges) are recycled as scrap metal.

Other items are sorted and recycled at local recycling centres or given to charity.