Understanding the regulations surrounding overweight bins can save you from unexpected fees and help you comply with legal requirements.

Table of Contents:

• Residential vs. Commercial Bin Collections
• Why Exceeding Weight Limits Matters
• The Impact of Compressing Waste
• How To Avoid Excess Weight Charges
• What Are The Bin Weight Limits?
• How Waste Managed Can Help: No Excess Weight Fees
• Conclusion

Residential vs. Commercial Bin Collections

In residential settings, local councils typically collect waste bins regardless of their weight, provided that all waste fits within the wheelie bin.

This means that as long as the lid can close, the bin will usually be collected without any issues. However, this is not the case for business waste collections.

For businesses, waste management companies have strict weight limits for commercial wheelie bins.

This is primarily due to the landfill tax, which is a government-imposed charge aimed at reducing the amount of waste sent to landfills and encouraging recycling and waste reduction.

The heavier the waste, the more it costs to dispose of it, making it necessary for waste management companies to enforce weight limits on commercial bins.

Why Exceeding Weight Limits Matters

Exceeding the weight limits for commercial waste bins can lead to several issues:

Refused Collection

If your bin is too heavy, the waste collection company might refuse to collect it. This can result in your waste not being disposed of on time, leading to potential health and safety risks and non-compliance with waste management regulations.

Excess Weight Fees

Waste collection companies often impose excess weight fees if a bin exceeds the specified weight limit. These fees can add up quickly and significantly increase your waste management costs. They also tend to be unexpected and can throw a curveball for your budget.

Operational Delays

Overloaded bins can cause delays in waste collection services. Waste collection trucks have weight limits for safety and legal reasons, and exceeding these can cause operational disruptions. This can cause missed collections for other businesses on your collection route.

In fact, if you’ve had a missed collection yourself, it could have been because another business owner overfilled their bins.

The Impact of Compressing Waste

It might seem like a good idea to compress waste in your commercial wheelie bins to make the most of the space available. However, compressing waste can make your bins excessively heavy, even if all the waste fits inside.

This can lead to the issues mentioned above: refused collections, additional fees, and potential fines.

To avoid these problems, it’s crucial to understand your waste provider’s weight limits and manage your waste accordingly. Regular monitoring and proper waste segregation can help reduce the weight of your waste, ensuring it stays within the allowable limits.

How To Avoid Excess Weight Charges

The best way to avoid excess weight is to keep an eye on the amount of waste your business is regularly producing and ensure you have big enough bins. You may need to upgrade from a 240L bin to a 660L for instance.

Segregating your waste into other waste streams such as having a dedicated food waste and recycling bin will also reduce how much waste goes in each container and significantly reduce your chances of incurring any excess weight fees. It’s also far better for the environment as less waste goes to landfill.

What Are The Bin Weight Limits?

Weights are dependent on the size of the bin and the type of waste it holds:

240L Wheelie Bin

• General waste: maximum 10kg 
• Dry mixed recycling: maximum 10kg 
• Glass waste: maximum 100kg 
• Food waste: maximum 100kg 

660L Wheelie Bin

• General waste: maximum 40kg 
• Dry mixed recycling: maximum 25kg 

1100L Wheelie Bin

• General waste: maximum 70kg 
• Dry mixed recycling: maximum 40kg 

How Waste Managed Can Help: No Excess Weight Fees

At Waste Managed, we understand that managing waste effectively can be challenging for businesses. That’s why we offer a hassle-free waste collection service with no excess weight fees (if keeping to our fair use policy).

With our fixed monthly cost, you don’t have to worry about hidden charges or unexpected fees due to overweight bins.

Our service is designed to be straightforward and transparent, allowing you to focus on running your business while we take care of your waste management needs. Whether you produce a little or a lot of waste, we have a solution that fits your requirements.

Key Benefits of Our Service:

• Fixed Monthly Cost: One simple monthly fee covers all your waste collection needs, giving you peace of mind and predictable budgeting.

• No Excess Weight Fees: We don’t charge extra for bins that are slightly over the weight limit, unlike many other waste collection companies.

• Flexible Waste Solutions: We provide various bin sizes and collection frequencies to suit the specific needs of your business.

• Environmentally Responsible: We prioritise recycling and proper waste disposal to minimise environmental impact and comply with all regulations.

Conclusion

Understanding the regulations surrounding commercial waste collection and managing your waste effectively can save you from unexpected costs and compliance issues.

At Waste Managed, we’re here to simplify your waste management process with no excess weight fees and a reliable, cost-effective service.

The post Excess Weight For Bin Collections Explained appeared first on Waste Management Services | Recycling | WasteManaged.

Quick Summary:

• Properly managing food waste by using designated food waste bins can help UK businesses reduce their environmental impact, comply with regulations, and save on disposal costs.

Effective waste management is essential for businesses looking to cut down on their environmental impact and comply with regulations. One of the most impactful areas to focus on is managing food waste.

Knowing which bin to use for food waste can simplify your waste disposal process, boost your sustainability efforts, and even save you money.

This guide is here to help UK business owners understand the ins and outs of food waste disposal.

Table of Contents:

• Why Proper Food Waste Management Matters
• What is a Food Waste Bin?
• How to Identify the Correct Bin
• Benefits of Proper Food Waste Bin Usage
• Conclusion

Why Proper Food Waste Management Matters

Food waste accounts for a significant portion of commercial waste in the UK.

WRAP estimated that in 2021, total food waste in the UK amounted to 10.7 million tonnes, with 10% of that coming from restaurants and food services.

Incorrect disposal can lead to an increase of food waste in landfills but it also results in the release of harmful greenhouse gases like methane.

By properly managing food waste, businesses can:

• Reduce Environmental Impact: Properly composted food waste turns into valuable compost, enriching soil rather than polluting the environment.

• Comply with Regulations: Adhering to local council guidelines and national waste regulations helps avoid fines and ensures compliance.

• Enhance Reputation: Demonstrating a commitment to sustainable practices can improve your brand image and customer loyalty.

What is a Food Waste Bin?

A food waste bin is a designated container specifically for the collection and disposal of organic waste these can often be placed in bin stores in a colour-coordinated manner with other waste bins.

This includes:

• Leftover food scraps

• Expired or spoiled food items

• Peelings and trimmings from fruits and vegetables

• Coffee grounds and tea bags

• Eggshells and nutshell

How to Identify the Correct Bin

In the UK, many councils provide businesses with specific bins for food waste. These bins are often colour-coded or labelled to avoid confusion.

Here’s a quick guide:

• Food Waste Bin (usually brown or green): Exclusively for food waste and compostable items.

• General Waste Bin (usually black or grey): For non-recyclable and non-compostable waste.

• Recycling Bin (often blue): For recyclable materials like paper, cardboard, plastics, and metals.

Implementing Food Waste Bins in Your Business

• Conduct a Waste Audit: Assess the types and amounts of waste your business generates to identify opportunities for waste reduction and proper bin placement.

• Train Staff: Educate employees about the importance of food waste segregation and how to use the bins correctly.

• Label Bins Clearly: Use clear signage and colour coding to help staff easily identify which bin to use.

• Monitor and Adjust: Regularly review waste management practices and adjust bin placement or training as needed to improve compliance and efficiency.

Benefits of Proper Food Waste Bin Usage

• Cost Savings: Reducing the volume of waste sent to landfill can lower disposal costs and potentially generate savings from composting services.

• Improved Hygiene: Proper segregation of food waste reduces odours and pest infestations, promoting a cleaner work environment.

• Sustainability Goals: Contributing to a circular economy by converting waste into compost supports sustainability initiatives and corporate social responsibility goals.

Conclusion

Correctly using a food waste bin is a simple yet effective way to enhance waste management practices. By understanding which bins food waste goes in and implementing proper disposal methods, businesses can achieve significant environmental and economic benefits.

Start today by evaluating your current waste management system and making the necessary changes to ensure food waste is disposed of responsibly.

Embrace sustainable practices, reduce your environmental impact, and join the growing number of businesses committed to better waste management.

The post Which Bin Does Food Waste Go In? appeared first on Waste Management Services | Recycling | WasteManaged.

• Bin lorries are sophisticated machines with hydraulic systems, compactors, and advanced tech to efficiently handle urban waste, ensuring community cleanliness.

• Modern lorries use GPS for route optimization, sensors for waste detection, and eco-friendly fuels like CNG or electricity, blending innovation and efficiency in waste management.

Ever wondered how the bin lorry—the unsung hero of urban cleanliness—does its job? These machines are more complex than they seem, blending engineering ingenuity with practical functionality to keep our streets spotless.

Let’s explore the inner workings of a bin lorry to understand how it performs its role in managing our waste. From lifting and emptying bins to compacting rubbish, these vehicles play an important role in maintaining the hygiene and health of our environment.

Table of Contents:

• The Anatomy of a Bin Lorry
• The Collection Process
• How Are Bin Lorries Emptied?
• The Role of Technology
• Environmental Considerations
• The Human Element
• Conclusion

The Anatomy of a Bin Lorry

A bin lorry is built for efficiency and durability.

Here’s a breakdown of its main components:

• Chassis and Cab – The foundation of the lorry, housing the driver and controls.

• Hopper – The receptacle that initially collects the waste.

• Compactor Mechanism – Compresses the waste to maximise storage space.

• Hydraulic System – Powers the lifting and compacting functions.

• Storage Compartment – Holds the compacted waste until it can be emptied.

• Tailgate – The back end that opens to unload the waste at the disposal site.

The Collection Process

Lifting

Using hydraulic arms, the lorry lifts the bins and tips their contents into the hopper. Some advanced models even have automated arms that pick up the bins without human intervention.

Compacting

Once the waste is in the hopper, it’s pushed into the storage compartment by a compactor blade. This blade moves forward and backwards, compressing the trash to create more space.

Transporting

After collecting and compacting the waste from all designated bins, the lorry transports it to a waste disposal facility. The journey involves navigating urban landscapes, so designers build modern lorries for agility and efficiency.

Unloading

Upon reaching the disposal site, the tailgate of the lorry is opened. The compactor blade then pushes the waste out, either into a larger container or directly into the landfill or incinerator.

Loading

The process starts when the lorry arrives in your neighbourhood. Workers wheel the bins to the lorry and attach them to a lifting mechanism, accommodating various types such as general waste bins, recycling bins, and organic waste bins.

How Are Bin Lorries Emptied?

At designated waste disposal facilities, workers empty bin lorries by opening the tailgate and using the compactor blade to push the compacted waste out of the storage compartment.

Workers then deposit the waste into a larger container, landfill, or incinerator, depending on its type and the facility’s disposal methods.

The Role of Technology

Today’s bin lorries use advanced technologies to boost efficiency and streamline operations. GPS systems optimise collection routes, while onboard cameras assist drivers in manoeuvring and monitoring the loading process.

Some lorries come with sensors that actively detect the weight and type of waste, helping to collect data and plan waste management more effectively. These technological advancements can significantly improve operational efficiency and sustainability.

Ever Wondered Why Your General Waste and Recycling Bins Sometimes Go in the Same Wagon?

Many modern waste collection vehicles are designed with separate compartments to handle different types of waste. These compartments allow the truck to collect both general waste and recyclables in one trip while keeping them separate until they reach the sorting facility.

This design optimises collection efficiency and ensures that recyclables are not contaminated by general waste, making the sorting process smoother and more effective.

Environmental Considerations

Modern bin lorries are also designed with the environment in mind. Many are powered by cleaner fuels, such as compressed natural gas (CNG) or electricity, to reduce carbon emissions.

Some lorries are part of a larger waste management system that includes recycling and composting, helping to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills.

The Human Element

While technology plays a significant role, the human element remains crucial. Skilled operators ensure that the lorries run smoothly, navigating tight urban streets and managing the complex machinery with precision. Their work is essential to maintaining public health and sanitation.

Conclusion

Bin lorries are a marvel of modern engineering, seamlessly integrating complex machinery and technology to perform a vital public service. Next time you see a bin lorry making its rounds, you’ll have a deeper appreciation for the intricate process that keeps our communities clean and livable.

These workhorses of waste management remind us that behind every clean street is a combination of innovation, efficiency, and human effort.

The post How Does a Bin Lorry Work? appeared first on Waste Management Services | Recycling | WasteManaged.

• Implement immediate solutions like using additional waste containers, and scheduling extra collections to manage overflowing bins effectively.

• Adopt long-term strategies such as conducting waste audits, increasing recycling efforts, and educating employees on proper waste disposal practices to prevent bin overflow and improve overall waste management.

Waste management is an essential service that impacts the quality of life in our communities. Data from BBC news indicates a significant rise in complaints related to waste collection across the UK, including issues with overflowing bins.

In 2018, an alarming 1.8 million complaints were reported by 336 authorities, highlighting serious issues in both non-recyclable and recyclable waste collection.

This rise in complaints underscores the need for immediate action to address the problems associated the frequent occurrence of overflowing bins.

Table of Contents:

• Understanding the Problem
• Immediate Solutions for Overflowing Bins
• Long-Term Strategies to Prevent Overflowing Bins
• Educate and Engage Employees
• Conclusion

Understanding the Problem

The rise in complaints about waste collection services, including issues with overflowing wheelie bins, highlights the importance of efficient waste management.

Whether it’s due to missed collections, increased waste generation, or insufficient bin capacity, overflowing bins can disrupt your business operations and harm your reputation.

Immediate Solutions for Overflowing Bins

1. Organise Waste

Additionally, ensure that waste is organised and placed correctly in the bins, with recyclables separated from general waste,

Organising bin stores can enhance the visual appeal of the area and enable your team to manage waste more efficiently.

It is important to note that waste in your bin should NOT be compressed. Compacting waste reduces the amount of oxygen available, which slows down the decomposition of organic materials. This can extend the time that waste remains in landfills.

By keeping waste uncompressed, you help ensure that it can be properly sorted, processed, and recycled, leading to more efficient and effective waste management.

2. Utilise Additional Waste Containers

If your wheelie bins are frequently overflowing, consider investing in additional waste containers.

Extra bins can help manage peak times when waste generation is higher, preventing overflow and keeping your premises tidy.

3. Schedule Extra Collections

Contact your waste collection service to arrange for extra collections, especially during busy periods.

Many waste management companies offer flexible collection schedules that can be tailored to your business needs.

Long-Term Strategies to Prevent Overflowing Bins

1. Conduct a Waste Audit

A waste audit can help you understand the types and volumes of waste your business generates.

This information is crucial for making informed decisions about your waste management practices and identifying areas where you can reduce waste.

2. Increase Recycling Efforts

Encouraging recycling within your business can significantly reduce the amount of general waste you produce.

Ensure that you have clearly marked recycling bins and educate your staff on what materials can be recycled. This not only helps in managing waste more effectively but also supports environmental sustainability.

3. Implement Waste Reduction Initiatives

Adopt practices that minimise waste generation. For instance:

• Use Reusable Products: Replace single-use items with reusable alternatives.

• Order in Bulk: Buying in bulk reduces packaging waste.

• Compost Organic Waste: If applicable, composting can reduce the volume of food waste in your bins.

Educate and Engage Employees

Your employees play a crucial role in waste management. Educate them on proper waste disposal practices and the importance of keeping the bins organised.

Regular training and clear communication can go a long way in preventing bin overflow.

Monitor and Review Your Waste Management Practices

Regularly review your waste management practices to identify any issues and areas for improvement. Monitoring the volume of waste and the effectiveness of your current waste disposal methods can help you make necessary adjustments and ensure your bins are not overflowing.

Conclusion

Effective waste management is essential for maintaining a clean and professional business environment. By implementing these strategies, you can prevent overflowing bins, improve your waste management practices, and contribute to a more sustainable future. Remember, a proactive approach to managing your waste not only keeps your premises tidy but also reflects positively on your business.

If you have any questions or need assistance with your waste management, don’t hesitate to contact your local waste collection service for support.

The post What To Do With Overflowing Bins appeared first on Waste Management Services | Recycling | WasteManaged.

• Recycling isn’t just beneficial for the environment; it’s also crucial for regulatory compliance and can improve your business’s reputation.

• Obtaining the right recycling bins involves assessing your needs, understanding local regulations, and choosing a reliable service provider.

The world is increasingly becoming more environmentally conscious, which is a key reason why recycling isn’t just a nice-to-have – it’s a must for businesses aiming to operate sustainably.

If you’re a UK business owner looking to implement or enhance your recycling efforts, getting the right recycling bins is a crucial step.

This blog will guide you through the process of acquiring recycling bins for your business, ensuring you contribute positively to the environment while complying with local regulations.

Table of Contents

• Why Recycling Matters for Your Business
• Steps to Getting a Recycling Bin for Your Business
• Benefits of a Well-Managed Recycling Program
• Final Thoughts

Why Recycling Matters for Your Business

Before digging into the logistics of obtaining a recycling bin, it’s essential to understand why recycling is important for your business:

• Environmental Impact: Reducing waste sent to landfills and conserving natural resources.

• Regulatory Compliance: Adhering to UK waste management regulations.

• Cost Savings: Potential reduction in waste disposal costs.

• Corporate Image: Enhancing your brand’s reputation as a sustainable and responsible business.

Steps to Getting a Recycling Bin for Your Business

1. Assess Your Needs

• Types of Waste: Identify the types of recyclable materials your business generates (paper, plastics, glass, metals, etc.).

• Volume: Estimate the volume of each type of waste to determine the size and number of bins required.

2. Understand Local Regulations

• Waste Management Laws: Familiarise yourself with the UK regulations, such as Simpler Recycling, regarding business waste and recycling. The UK government provides guidelines on managing business waste that can be very useful.

• Local Council Requirements: Check with your local council for specific recycling programs and requirements in your area. Councils often provide recycling bins and services for businesses.

3. Choose the Right Bins

• Size and Capacity: Depending on your waste volume, choose appropriately sized bins. Options range from small office bins to large industrial containers.

• Material and Durability: Select bins made from durable materials that suit your business environment.

• Design: Consider bins with clear labelling and colour coding to facilitate easy sorting of recyclables.

4. Select a Recycling Service Provider

• Council Services: Some local councils offer commercial waste and recycling services, including providing bins and regular collections.

• Private Companies: Numerous private waste management companies offer tailored recycling services for businesses. Research and compare services, pricing, and contract terms.

5. Arrange Collection and Disposal

• Collection Schedule: Set up a collection schedule that aligns with your business’s waste generation patterns. Regular collections prevent overflow and maintain tidy premises.

• Staff Training: Educate your employees on proper recycling practices to ensure that recyclables are correctly sorted and uncontaminated.

6. Monitor and Improve

• Track Performance: Monitor the volume and types of waste being recycled. Many service providers offer reporting tools to help you track your recycling efforts.

• Continuous Improvement: Regularly review and adjust your recycling processes to improve efficiency and effectiveness.

Benefits of a Well-Managed Recycling Program

Implementing an effective recycling program can yield numerous benefits for your business:

• Compliance: Stay compliant with UK waste management laws and avoid potential fines.

• Environmental Stewardship: Demonstrate your commitment to environmental sustainability, which can enhance your corporate social responsibility profile.

• Cost Efficiency: Potentially lower waste disposal costs by reducing the amount of waste sent to landfills.

• Employee Engagement: Foster a culture of sustainability within your workforce, boosting morale and productivity.

Final Thoughts

Setting up a recycling bin for your business in the UK is a straightforward process that can have significant positive impacts. By following these steps, you can ensure that your business not only complies with local regulations but also contributes to a greener, more sustainable future.

Start today, and join the growing number of UK businesses that are making a difference through effective waste management and recycling practices.

Remember, every step towards better recycling practices is a step towards a more sustainable world. Let’s make recycling a part of your business’s success story.

The post How to Get a Recycling Bin for a Business appeared first on Waste Management Services | Recycling | WasteManaged.

Quick Summary:

• Bin stores improve the visual appeal of business premises and offer additional security against theft, vandalism, and pest infestations.

Maintaining an efficient waste management system is crucial to sustaining a clean, safe, and compliant workplace. As a leading waste management company, we understand the unique challenges UK business owners face in managing their waste effectively.

One of the most practical solutions to these challenges is the use of a bin store.

Here, we explore the numerous benefits of incorporating storage bins and wheelie bins into your waste management strategy.

Table of Contents

• What Are the Benefits of Wheelie Bins?
• Benefits of a Bin Store
• Benefits of Managing Waste Effectively
• Conclusion

What Are the Benefits of Wheelie Bins?

Wheelie bins have revolutionised waste management for businesses by providing a convenient, hygienic, and efficient method for waste storage and collection.

Here are the key advantages of wheelie bins for your business:

• Ease of Use: Wheelie bins are designed for easy manoeuvrability. Their wheels make them simple to transport, reducing the physical strain on employees and minimising the risk of workplace injuries.

• Enhanced Hygiene: Properly contained waste in wheelie bins minimises exposure to potential contaminants and pests. This helps maintain a clean and sanitary environment, essential for employee health and regulatory compliance.

• Improved Efficiency: Wheelie bins come in various sizes, allowing businesses to choose the right capacity for their needs. This reduces the frequency of waste collection, leading to cost savings and less disruption to daily operations.

• Environmental Benefits: Using wheelie bins encourages proper waste segregation, facilitating recycling and reducing the overall environmental impact of your business.

Benefits of a Bin Store

A bin store offers additional advantages by providing a designated area for waste storage and management.

Here’s how a bin store can benefit your business:

• Improved Aesthetics: Keeping bins in a designated store enhances your business’s appearance by preventing unsightly, overflowing bins and maintaining a professional look.

• Security: A bin store offers an added layer of security, reducing the risk of theft, vandalism, or illegal dumping. This is particularly important for businesses located in urban areas or those handling sensitive materials.

• Compliance and Safety: Proper waste storage is essential for meeting health and safety regulations. A bin store ensures that waste is contained and stored safely, reducing potential hazards and helping you comply with local laws.

• Pest Control: By containing waste within a bin store, you can significantly reduce the risk of attracting pests such as rodents and insects. This is vital for businesses in the food industry or those with strict hygiene standards.

Benefits of Managing Waste Effectively

Effective waste management extends beyond just the use of bins and bin stores. Here’s why it’s essential for your business:

• Cost Savings: Efficient waste management reduces the frequency and cost of waste collection. By optimising your waste-handling processes, you can achieve significant cost savings over time.

• Environmental Responsibility: Proper waste management practices contribute to a cleaner environment. Recycling and reducing waste benefit the planet and enhance your company’s reputation as an environmentally responsible business.

• Regulatory Compliance: Staying compliant with waste management regulations is necessary to avoid fines and legal issues. A well-organised waste management system ensures that you meet all necessary guidelines and standards.

• Improved Productivity: A clean and organised workplace boosts employee morale and productivity. When waste is managed efficiently, employees can focus more on their tasks and less on dealing with waste-related issues.

Conclusion

Implementing a bin store and utilising wheelie bins are practical steps towards efficient waste management for your business.

Bin stores will provide your business with a clean and organised method for handling waste, but they also offer numerous benefits including cost savings, improved hygiene, and regulatory compliance.

As a trusted waste management company, we are here to help you streamline your waste collection processes and ensure that your business operates smoothly and sustainably.

The post Benefits of a Bin Store For Your Business? appeared first on Waste Management Services | Recycling | WasteManaged.

Enter bin bag collections, aka business waste sacks; a versatile and efficient alternative.

This guide will help you understand how these collections work, their benefits, and how they can be implemented in your business.

What are Commercial Bin Bag Collections?

Bin bag collections involve the use of durable waste sacks instead of wheelie bins. These sacks are used to separate and store different types of waste, which are then collected by waste management services.

This method is particularly useful for businesses that produce various types of waste and need to adhere to strict recycling regulations without the space or capacity for multiple wheelie bins.

Why Choose Bin Bag Collections?

Space Efficiency

• Limited Space: Many businesses, especially those in urban areas, do not have the space for multiple wheelie bins. Bin bags take up less space and can be stored more flexibly. Bin stores can be a practical solution by offering businesses a dedicated area designed to hold multiple bins or sacks in an organized manner.

• Versatility: Bin bags can be easily placed in different areas of your premises, making waste segregation more convenient.

Regulatory Compliance

• Meeting Regulations: New legislation in Wales, for instance, requires businesses to separate their waste streams. Bin bag collections make it easier to comply with such regulations without the logistical nightmare of managing numerous wheelie bins.

• Recycling Efficiency: Properly labelled waste sacks help ensure that different types of waste are correctly sorted and recycled, reducing contamination and improving recycling rates.

How Do Bin Bag Collections Work?

Waste Segregation

• Identify Waste Streams: Determine the types of waste your business generates. Common categories include general waste, food waste, glass, paper and cardboard, metals, plastics, textiles, and WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment).

• Labelling: Use colour-coded or labelled sacks to differentiate between waste types. This helps in maintaining proper segregation and ensures that each type of waste is handled correctly.

Collection Process

• Scheduling Collections: Work with a waste management service to set up a collection schedule. This can be tailored to your business’s needs, ensuring timely removal of waste without overflow.

• Collection Day: On collection days, place the filled sacks at the designated pickup point. The waste management team will collect and transport the sacks to the appropriate recycling or disposal facilities.

Conclusion

Bin bag collections and business waste sacks offer a practical, efficient, and cost-effective solution for managing commercial waste.

By choosing this method, your business can meet regulatory requirements, reduce costs, and manage space more effectively. Whether you’re dealing with general waste, recyclables, or specific waste streams like WEEE, bin bag collections provide the flexibility and efficiency modern businesses need.

By understanding and implementing bin bag collections, you can improve your waste management practices and contribute to a more sustainable and compliant business operation.

The post A Guide to Bin Bag Collections & Business Waste Sacks appeared first on Waste Management Services | Recycling | WasteManaged.

Hello, I’m Steve Traviss, Waste Managed’s Procurement & Sustainability Officer.

Whether you’re a seasoned business owner or just starting out, managing your commercial waste efficiently is crucial for both your operations and the environment.

I’ve written this informational blog to guide you through the essentials of commercial waste collection, offering insights on the types of waste, regulations, best practices, and sustainable solutions.

I hope you find it useful!

Table of Contents

• What is Commercial Waste?
• Why Proper Commercial Waste Management Matters
• Setting Up Your Commercial Waste Collection System
• Sustainable Commercial Waste Management Practices
• Commercial Waste Compliance and Legislation
• Partnering with a Waste Management Company
• Conclusion

What is Commercial Waste?

Commercial waste refers to any waste produced by businesses, including offices, shops, restaurants, and factories.

Unlike household waste, commercial waste often requires specialised handling due to its volume and variety.

It includes:

• General Waste: Non-recyclable materials such as certain plastics and polythene.

• Recyclable Waste: Paper, cardboard, glass, metals, and certain plastics.

• Food Waste: Food scraps and leftovers

• Hazardous Waste: Chemicals, batteries, and electronic waste (WEEE).

and more!

Why Proper Commercial Waste Management Matters

I am of the opinion that effective waste management is not just about compliance and keeping costs low, but also about sustainability.

Businesses in the UK generate millions of tonnes of waste annually.

In 2021, commercial and industrial activities produced approximately 37.9 million tonnes of waste, highlighting the need for robust waste management systems​.

Environmental Impact

Improper waste disposal can lead to pollution, harming wildlife and ecosystems.

To put it simply, if your business adopts sustainable waste practices, businesseses can reduce their carbon footprint.

For instance, recycling just one tonne of paper can save up to 17 trees and 7,000 gallons of water​!

Economic Benefits

Efficient waste management can also lead to cost savings, which is a priority for all businesses particularly new and/or small businesses!

By reducing, reusing, and recycling waste, businesses can lower disposal costs and even generate revenue from recyclable materials.

We’ve had lots of clients over the years who have saved a fortune by adding a dry mixed recycling bin to their portfolio as they don’t have to spend money on excess weight fees.

UK businesses could save up to £23 million pounds per year by reducing their waste according to Environment Secretary Caroline Spelman.

Setting Up Your Commercial Waste Collection System

1. Assess Your Waste

The best place to start is by conducting a waste audit to understand the types and volumes of waste your business generates.

How can you even start thinking about what size bin you’ll need for each waste type if you don’t know what waste you’re producing?

If you’re a new business and haven’t produced any waste yet, don’t panic.

We have lots of guides on our website that can help you, you can find them in “Sectors” at the bar at the top of this page.

Alternatively, always feel free to give us a call. We won’t charge you a thing and are happy to give you advice on what similar customers of ours are currently doing!

2. Choose the Right Service Provider

You can go directly to a waste collection company like Biffa or Veolia, but you won’t always get the best deal and often not the best customer service.

It’s not their fault, they’ve just got a lot of customers to manage, and sometimes a small or new business just isn’t high up enough on the food chain for them.

Alternatively you could use a Waste Broker like us that can shop around for the best deals for you and can offer the right services tailored to your business needs.

The benefit of using us is that we offer fantastic customer service (just check out our Trustpilot!), but also we’re a huge client to the national waste collection companies, we can offer low-cost rates for our customers that just aren’t available anywhere else.

Let’s suppose you go directly to the waste collection companies.

In that case, you’ll likely have to go to different individual ones for each service, as not every waste collection company offers the right services in your area.

Use us, and we’ll do all the hard work, get you a much better deal, and also set you up with one monthly payment so you can keep your balance sheet nice and simple.

Your business starts growing? Our flexible solutions are designed to scale with your business, ensuring sustainability​.

3. Choose Your Bin Types and Sizes

Don’t worry, we’re here to help you with this if you need it.

The next step is to select the right bins for your waste types.

Common options include:

• General Waste Bins

• Dry Mixed Recycling Bins

• Food Waste Bins

• Glass Waste Bins

• Clinical Waste Bins

• Confidential Waste Bins

• Cardboard Waste Bins

• Sharps Waste Bins

• Sanitary Waste Bins

Now you’ll need to choose the right size for your bin!

We offer sizes including 240L, 360L, 660L and 1100L.

Not sure what bin size you need? Don’t worry!

You can read our bin size guide here, use our free online calculator, or feel free to give us a ring and we’ll happily help you.

4. Collection Schedules

Now what you’ll need to figure out is how often you’ll need your waste collected.

At Waste Managed, we can either arrange weekly or fortnightly (every 2 weeks) collection.

If you go with more frequent collections, it can help prevent overflow and ensure your business premises remains clean and of course compliant with health regulations.

It can also help you avoid excess weight fees – something to be mindful of when budgeting!

Sustainable Commercial Waste Management Practices

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

Implementing the 3Rs is crucial for minimising waste.

Encourage your staff to reduce waste generation, reuse materials where possible, and separate recyclables from general waste.

Food Waste Management

Food waste is a significant component of commercial waste, especially in the hospitality sector.

You can read our guide on composting here, or you can ask our team about how we choose providers that fit our strict environmental policy.

Hazardous Waste Disposal

The proper handling of hazardous waste is absolutely critical in protecting the environment and keeping your business compliant.

Ensure you comply with regulations by using certified disposal services.

If you’re a bit unsure on how hazardous waste disposal works, you can read our hazardous guide or definitely feel free to give us a quick call on how we can help!

Commercial Waste Compliance and Legislation

Adhering to waste management regulations in the UK is absolutely mandatory, and helps ensure that businesses make the best choices to positively influence the environment and general society around them.

In the UK, businesses must comply with the Waste (England and Wales) Regulations 2011, which mandate the segregation and recycling of waste.

You can read one of my recent blogs about DEFRA here.

Failure to comply with regulations can result in hefty fines​. If you partner with us though, we’ll take care of making sure you have all the correct processes in place so you’re not caught out!

Duty of Care

Businesses have a legal duty of care to manage waste responsibly.

This includes keeping waste to a minimum, storing it safely, and ensuring it is collected by a licensed waste carrier.

Find out more about Duty of Care in another one of my blogs here!

Partnering with a Waste Management Company

A reliable waste management partner can simplify compliance and enhance sustainability.

We offer fantastic, environmentally-friendly services that cover the entire waste supply chain.

Our solutions help businesses prevent, reduce, recycle, and recover waste efficiently.

Benefits of Partnering with Experts

• Comprehensive Services: From general waste to hazardous materials.

• Sustainability Focus: Innovative recycling and recovery processes.

• Nationwide Coverage: Services available across the UK, ensuring local support.

• Cost-effective Solutions: Tailored services to fit your budget and needs.

Conclusion

Managing commercial waste effectively is essential for business efficiency, regulatory compliance, and environmental sustainability.

By understanding your waste types, choosing the right services, and adopting sustainable practices, you can turn waste management from a burden into a great opportunity to help the environment.

Partnering with a trusted provider like us can streamline the process, helping you achieve your sustainability goals.

For more information and tailored waste management solutions, feel free to give our fantastic sales team a call!

About the Author

Steve Traviss

Procurement & Sustainability Officer

Steve Traviss is MCIPS Chartered and is extremely passionate about the environment and corporate responsibility when it comes to sustainable waste disposal practices. Steve truly embodies everything we stand for at Waste Managed and in 2022, Steve took part in a world record scuba beach clean up in Thailand which we’re incredibly proud of him for. Steve researches and writes a lot of our blog content on our website and draws off of a wealth of experience in the waste management industry and knowledge of UK environmental legislation.

View Steve’s LinkedIn

The post Everything You Need to Know About Commercial Waste Collection appeared first on Waste Management Services | Recycling | WasteManaged.

Businesses across lots of industries are now considering ways to reduce their carbon footprint and contribute positively to sustainability efforts.

One effective strategy that more and more businesses are using is composting!

Composting not only helps divert food waste from going to landfill, but also produces really nutrient soil you can use for landscaping around your business, or even sold for additional revenue if you have the right permissions.

Keep reading through this guide to see how easy it is to set up a compost bin at your business address.

Table of Contents

• Step 1: Assessing Your Business Waste
• Step 2: Waste Sorting
• Step 3: Choosing Your Business Compost Bin
• Step 4: Training & Education
• Step 5: Monitoring and Maintenance
• Step 6: Using Your Business Compost
• Benefits of Composting for Businesses
• Conclusion

Step 1: Assessing Your Business Waste

The first step is to assess your business’ organic and food waste.

This might include fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, or any other leftover food.

Start by identifying these organic materials in your waste stream and make a note of how much of this type of waste you’re generating.

Begin to train your staff to separate your compostable waste from other waste that may go into a food waste bin or general waste bin.

Restaurants, cafes, pubs, takeaways, and hotels will be the biggest contributors to food waste, and therefore have the highest likelihood of saving money through composting!

Step 2: Waste Sorting

Once you’ve identified the waste streams within your business, like coffee grounds, egg shells, paper waste and vegetable scraps, develop a waste sorting system that will allow you to sort easily and efficiently.

This may involve providing clearly labeled bins or containers for compostable materials in common areas and employee break rooms.

Top Tip! Put clear signs that have pictures on the front of your bins so that anyone using the bin knows exactly what to dispose of, and where!

Step 3: Choosing Your Business Compost Bin

Selecting the right composting equipment or system is crucial for successful composting.

For smaller businesses, simple compost bins or tumblers may suffice, while larger operations may require more advanced composting equipment.

Consider factors such as space availability, budget, and the volume of organic waste generated when choosing composting infrastructure.

Step 4: Training & Education

Employee training and education are key components of a successful composting programme.

Provide comprehensive training on composting practices, including what materials can be composted, how to properly sort waste and the benefits of composting for the environment.

Encourage ongoing education and communication to ensure staff remain engaged and informed.

Top Tip! Make one of your employees a ‘Composting Champion’ who is responsible for encouraging other members of staff to sort waste correctly and use the compost bin.

Step 5: Monitoring and Maintenance

Regular monitoring and maintenance are essential to keep composting systems running smoothly.

Develop a schedule for checking compost bins or piles, adjusting moisture levels, and turning or aerating the compost as needed.

Monitor temperature and decomposition progress to ensure the optimal conditions for composting are kept to!

Step 6: Using Your Business Compost

Once composting is complete and the organic materials have broken down into nutrient-rich soil, explore ways to use the finished compost!

Use it to enrich soil in landscaping projects, gardens, or green spaces around your business premises.

Are there any products that you’re buying that you could plant instead?

Have you decorated your pub garden with lots of plants for your customers, or maybe you want to start a beautifying project?

Consider partnering with local community gardens or urban farms to donate excess compost or explore opportunities for selling compost to customers or community members.

Benefits of Composting for Businesses

Composting offers numerous benefits for businesses, including:

• Cost Savings: By diverting organic waste from landfills, businesses can reduce waste disposal costs.

• Environmental Responsibility: Composting helps businesses minimise their environmental impact by reducing methane emissions from landfills and conserving natural resources.

• Brand Reputation: Demonstrating a commitment to sustainability through composting initiatives can enhance a business’ reputation and attract environmentally-conscious customers.

• Employee Engagement: Involving employees in composting efforts can boost morale and create a sense of environmental responsibility within the workplace.

Conclusion

In conclusion, composting is a practical and sustainable waste management solution for businesses across various industries.

By following these steps and embracing composting practices, businesses can play a vital role in promoting environmental sustainability while reaping the benefits of cost savings and enhanced corporate responsibility.

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