In response to the latest recycling reforms, waste management companies across England are facing significant changes and challenges. Chris Snelson, the Fleet and Asset Director at NRG Riverside, shares insights on the evolving landscape of waste management due to the new mandates introduced by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).
Adapting to Mandatory Recycling Reforms
In October 2023, Defra announced the Simpler Recycling reform. This initiative mandates weekly household food waste collections throughout England by 2026 and requires at least fortnightly collections of residual waste. Additionally, it promises the comprehensive recycling of glass, metals, plastics, paper, card, food, and garden waste, although it permits the combined collection of dry recyclables.
Financial Implications and Strategic Investments
Implementing these reforms comes with significant costs for local authorities, the private sector, and consumers. On January 9, 2024, Defra outlined the indicative capital transitional costs for all English authorities to introduce weekly food waste collections. This funding will cover the procurement of necessary bins and food waste collection vehicles. Moreover, resource transitional funding will be available in 2024/25 to facilitate these services, whether in full or in part.
Surging Demand for Innovative Waste Solutions
Chris Snelson notes a sharp increase in enquiries for new recycling collection services and food waste vehicles. “The industry is under pressure as manufacturers’ slots for vehicle builds are quickly being booked up ahead of the 2026 funding deadline,” he explains.
To tackle these uncertainties, waste collection authorities are exploring innovative approaches such as recyclable tonnage contracts, anaerobic digestion agreements, and optimising collection routes. These strategies are critical as they navigate the lack of data and hesitancy surrounding specific vehicle applications, which complicates long-term procurement decisions, especially with the looming transition to electric vehicles.
Embracing Flexibility through Flexi-Hire and Contract Hire Solutions
NRG Riverside is pioneering flexibility in waste management through their flexi-hire and contract hire options. This approach allows their clients to test drive new vehicles without a long-term commitment, adjusting specifications like gross vehicle weight and recycling capabilities as needed. “This adaptability is crucial for our clients as they develop new or modify existing recycling routes,” Chris adds.
Throughout 2023, NRG Riverside anticipated and responded to the growing need for specialised food waste vehicles, including 7.5-tonne and 11-tonne trucks equipped with cutting-edge technology from Terberg Orus and Hillend Engineering. The company also expanded its fleet with twelve 12.5-tonne electric food waste vehicles, showcasing their commitment to sustainability and innovation.
Northumberland County Council’s Proactive Approach
Northumberland County Council exemplifies proactive waste management through its flexi-hire strategy. Initially hiring a 7.5-tonne Isuzu with Terberg Orus technology, the council gathered valuable data that justified upgrading to an 11-tonne model to enhance efficiency and capacity in food waste collection.
Leading the Charge in Electric Waste Collection
The shift to electric refuse collection vehicles (RCVs) is gaining momentum alongside these new recycling reforms. For example, in 2023, Basildon Borough Council introduced the UK’s first fully electric food waste collection fleet, provided by NRG Riverside. This fleet not only meets the logistical demands but also significantly reduces carbon emissions, demonstrating a sustainable path forward in waste management.
Chris Snelson is optimistic about the transition to electric vehicles, stating, “Early adoption of electric technology in our fleet not only addresses immediate needs but also prepares our customers for future environmental standards.”
Navigating New Normal in Waste Management
As England adapts to new recycling mandates, waste management companies like NRG Riverside are at the forefront of introducing flexible, sustainable solutions that cater to the evolving needs of their clients. With innovative approaches and strategic investments, these firms are setting the stage for more efficient and environmentally friendly waste management systems, paving the way for a greener future.
