Waste contamination is a vital problem that undermines the UK’s efforts to recycle. As waste disposal experts, we’re aware of the issues it can all create. So, we’re going to go into detail on how big the issue is. Then, if you need skip hire in Redcar or other parts of Teesside, you can rely on us.

The issues of contamination go beyond simply mixing up a few different types of rubbish; they can make a whole skip that includes otherwise recyclable goods impossible to bring back to the circular economy. Inadequate recycling leads straight to environmental damage and greater waste management costs. This isn’t only about staying environmentally friendly though; by stopping waste contamination, you can also save money.

What is waste contamination?

It happens when you mix up different kinds of waste. This renders them useless for recycling. In the demolition and construction industries for instance, there are materials treated using chemicals. You need to separate them from recyclable objects. If you fail to do it, everything will have to go to an incinerator or landfill.

Common items capable of contaminating recyclable refuse include batteries, oil, and liquids. Solvents, fluorescent tubes, medical/clinical waste, asbestos, and plasterboard are also detrimental.

Disposable vape pens have proven especially challenging here. Being electronic devices that contain batteries, they need specialist recycling. Yet, they tend to find themselves in general waste or recycling bins. This poses a risk of fire within waste management facilities. If you’re after the top services for skip hire in Redcar, give us a call.

Food packaging

Did you know food can actually be a major contaminant? Greasy pizza boxes are a particular problem. It’s true that a lot of the packaging is cardboard, foil, and recyclable plastic. However, the grease and food residue means they can contaminate the recycling streams. It is often not possible to separate the contaminants from the packaging. What this does is undermine the quality of the recycled goods.

Nappies

These are mainly non-recyclable thanks to the waste contamination and composition. Even so, they often end up in recycling bins. It leads to the recycling process becoming trickier and more expensive. At the same time, it poses health risks to the workers responsible for sorting everything.

Other issues

Waste contamination gets further exacerbated by the problems posed from wishcycling. This is the act of people assuming things are recyclable when they aren’t.

There is also the emergence of new regulations. Major ones include ways to handle persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and possibly hazardous wood waste.

The UK’s overall approach to working on industrial, commercial, and residential rubbish has evolved too. There’s been much emphasis on lowering the volume going to landfills and increasing recycling levels. Firms have been able to guide companies through the complex world of recycling. They do so by tailoring waste management strategies and offering consultations. This ensures that we handle materials with economic and environmental efficiency being the focus.

Environmentally friendly skip hire in Redcar

At L&C Skip Hire, we’re committed to being as environmentally friendly as possible. We dispose of all waste in an ethical and responsible way. This gives clients peace of mind when they work with us. They know their waste is going to do some good rather than harming the planet.

So, if you’re after the greatest services for skip hire in Redcar, let us know or book today. We can provide a solution for any kind of project.