NEW RUBBISH RECYCLING SYSTEM IN SALISBURY CATHEDRAL CLOSE

Picnickers in Salisbury Cathedral Close can now recycle their rubbish and waste, and by doing so help preserve our environment, through the new recycling system introduced at the cathedral.

Mark Elcomb, Chapter Clerk, said “We are now able to collect glass bottles, plastic bottles, drinks cans and general rubbish into special recycle bins which have been strategically positioned at the four key entry and exit points around the Close ready thanks to the support of Compass Group UK & Ireland who provide the catering for the Cathedral Refectory.

“Salisbury Cathedral Close is a place of unequalled beauty and inspiration to which we welcome over 350,000 visitors each year. The Cathedral undertook a feasibility study on recycling and waste disposal and, as a result, is working hard to recycle its waste products. Technology nowadays allows more discarded goods to be recycled and not sent to landfill sites. Already we recycle our paper and cardboard and our Refectory has three recycling bins to take glass, paper and general waste which are turned into raw materials.”

The four sets of four black plastic bins, manufactured by Linpac, have been fixed onto interlocked paving slabs. The bins are colour-coded using the WRAP – Waste Resource & Action Programme - colours which are currently being adopted as the UK standard. “We had to strike a balance between not intruding on an iconic landscape yet positioning the bins where they are visible to encourage their use. We hope our visitors make great use of them and play their part in keeping the Close litter free.

“The collection and processing of the waste is being handled by Recycled Waste Dot Com and all recyclable goods will be taken back to their Bristol warehouse. Initially there will be a weekly collection but this will vary according to seasonal trends. Recycled Waste Dot Com were chosen as they provide a comprehensive service of effective waste management solutions and have vehicles of the right capacity, recognizing the particular entrance constraints of The Close.”

Dr Dianne Roy, Recycled Waste Dot Com, said “We are delighted that Salisbury Cathedral is now recycling the rubbish collected in the public areas of the Close. Recycling is essential for the future of our environment. The waste could be turned into a range of products, including plastic wood, polyester fabric, water pipes, substitute for aggregates in road building, and of course drinks cans back into drinks cans but with a 95% energy saving. We will be supplying the Cathedral with feedback on their recycling achievement as the project progresses.”

Jonathan Davidson, Operations Leader, Compass Group UK & Ireland said: “Compass is committed to working with its clients to help them improve their environmental performance and I am delighted that we have been able to assist Salisbury Cathedral in its drive to improve the recycling facilities it provides to its customers and maintain the wonderful surroundings of the Close for visitors.”