Screwfix hits 'zero waste' targets across UK store network

Screwfix has developed a waste management programme which has resulted in the company being able to divert 415 tonnes of waste from landfill in the last year. The company has also been able to recycle more than 4,700 tonnes of waste, to meet its zero waste to landfill objectives across its UK stores.

Part of the Kingfisher Retail Group, Screwfix worked with SAICA Natur to develop a waste management programme which complemented existing procedures as well as introducing new measures. The programme was rolled out across stores nationwide.

As SAICA considered the retailer’s waste practices in the context of the wider business it became clear that a backhauling programme and a two-stream recycling solution would create efficiencies for the business.

The backhauling system meant that instead of returning to the distribution centre empty, Screwfix’s fleet of delivery vehicles could be deployed to collect the store waste, taking it back to the distribution centre where the Screwfix team sorts the mixed recyclables and compacts the general waste.

Following an initial trial period, the scheme was rolled out across Screwfix’s 285 stores with each store being provided with a back of store collection service where waste is separated by on site staff into two streams – general waste and dry mixed recyclables. As a result, traditional waste collections were no longer needed leading to a reduction in costs and space savings.

The second wave of improvements covered chemical and hazardous wastes at distribution centres. SAICA Natur project managers reviewed the processes resulting in chemical waste production, the types requiring treatment and the volumes being produced.

Commenting on the improvements that have been made, Peter Harries, quality manager at Screwfix, said: “These initiatives have been in place for a number of months and are working very well. They have made a real step change to our waste management and recycling practices. We are delighted to have achieved zero waste to landfill status at our stores and are impressed by the efficiencies that we have been able to introduce.

"SAICA Natur worked with us together to determine the best solution in terms of dealing with the company’s waste. This allows Screwfix to be in control of waste streams and ultimately where the waste ends up – away from landfill."

Source : Energy & Environment Management
www.eaem.co.uk/news/screwfix-achieves-zero-waste-across-uk-stores