SITA UK will be testing out a new recycling initiative that could result in thousands of metric tons of concrete and asphalt being recycled.
The trial program began on Oct. 19th, and involves the crushing of concrete and asphalt to produce a secondary aggregate which can be re-used in the building trade.
The trial is being undertaken at one of SITA UK’s landfill site using a new mobile crusher that is totally self-contained with enclosed noise and dust suppression systems and screens. SITA UK hopes that the trial will establish whether the operation is likely to impact upon local residents and the environment at large.
SITA UK estimates around 60,000 metric tons of inert concrete and asphalt could be recovered from the waste received at the site which could help towards Dorset County Council’s recycling targets and diversion of waste way from landfill.
Representatives from the local liaison group, planning authority, Environment Agency and English Nature were invited to view the operation at the start of the trial. Furthermore, SITA UK’s management team were on hand to answer questions and explain the process.
John Sinclair, SITA UK’s Recycling Development Manager, said: ‘It is essential for SITA UK as an environmentally responsible company to comply with landfill diversion targets and to recycle waste materials wherever possible. However, we recognize that local concerns are also our responsibility and hope that the visit by representatives of the community groups will help to reassure them that the operation can be undertaken successfully with minimal social and environmental impacts.’