Underground refuse bins: A beacon of best practice

Since space required for underground systems is reduced, developers have the potential to gain building land and save costs.

The Council and University signed an agreement to ensure that cost and maintenance responsibilities were clear and the service for residents seamless. The unique nature of the scheme meant that both partners were dealing with new concepts when it came to service delivery, communications and suppliers.

Educating residents about what could be recycled was a key consideration of successful project implementation. Council Officers worked with the University to provide information for the residents’ online portal, and design and develop a range of unique products including kitchen labels and leaflets explaining waste segregation.

Livery on the specialist vehicle was agreed jointly to thank residents for recycling and motivate them to take part. Close working between the Council and University has led to a number of information sessions and demonstrations for local residents and the Primary School, enforcing the positive impact of recycling.

The scheme has attracted significant media coverage in the local and national press, and has been shortlisted for a number of waste industry awards.

It has become a beacon of best practice showcasing an exciting and unique waste management system to both developers and Councils across the UK.

Warren Forsyth, Operations Director for Northwest Cambridge Development said, “The University of Cambridge has a strong vision for the North West Cambridge Development to be an exemplar of sustainability, which can only be achieved through excellent partnership working with a range of stakeholders.

“The team-work between the University and Local Authority from inception to procurement and operation, is something which we are all immensely proud of. The early results of the scheme have shown positive recycling levels compared to local data.

“The interest that our approach to waste and recycling management has captured not only our resident community, but also the Cambridgeshire and national community, with positive feedback through word-of-mouth and in the national press. We hope that our innovative approach can be recognised positively within the industry.”

• For more information about underground refuse systems please contact APSE Solutions Senior Consultant Paddy Knowles at [email protected] or call 0161 772 1810.

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