Donating our used white goods to support the homeless
3233 Tonnes of waste were produced across the portfolio in 2021/22
1163 Tonnes of this waste was segregated achieving a recycling rate of 36%
2070 Tonnes of general waste was produced, this waste was diverted from landfill via Waste to Energy.
As part of our kitchen refurbishment programme, UPP generates a significant volume of surplus white goods such as under-counter fridges and freezers which, while still serviceable, cannot be repurposed or used elsewhere within our accommodation
That is why UPP established a partnership with CREATE UK, a registered UK charity and social enterprise based in South Liverpool, Merseyside. CREATE works with housing associations and other organisations within the region collecting electrical goods – whether end-of-life or just unwanted – which are either refurbished or sustainably disposed of accordingly. The operation of collection, refurbishment, and redistribution of goods provides paid work experience for unemployed individuals through Back to Work schemes and Intermediate Labour Market programmes. This partnership has allowed us to recycle 764 fridges and freezers over the past three years – that’s equivalent to 21,010 kgs which has been diverted from landfill since 2019. It also directly links our environment programme with our social purpose activities.
Zero Waste to Landfill
Due to the scale and geographical spread of its operation, UPP manages a significant amount of waste across a number of waste streams through our everyday operations. Control, minimisation, and diversion of this waste from landfill is key to UPP’s sustainable operation. Compliance with relevant legislation is maintained through our Environmental Management System (EMS). Waste is also produced indirectly because of our construction and development activities, delivered by third-party organisations which also fall under our environmental management approach. An external review of waste management operations at all sites was conducted by Sitemark, which established the recycling and diversion rates at each site, enabling an average rate to be identified, while also identifying all waste streams and any efficiency and rebate opportunities. A series of incremental targets were agreed with the aim of incrementally achieving Zero Waste to Landfill by 2025.
Looking Ahead
A series of reviews will be conducted with all waste contractors and minimum recycling rates included within all contract terms. A waste awareness and training package will be rolled out at all sites, whilst we will work closely with our partner institutions to ensure consistency of waste receptacles and processes across each site. Additionally, as part of the expansion of our behaviour change programme, a week-long waste sprint/engagement initiative will be conducted at each participating location.
Contact Us
Richard Bolger
Business Development Director
FACILITIES MANAGEMENT
