Screwfix has managed to achieve zero waste to landfill at its 285 UK stores through a series of initiatives in recent years.
The tools retailer took on the task of collecting and sorting its own waste, meaning traditional waste collections were no longer needed at its stores. A system was introduced at each store where staff would separate on site waste into two streams - general waste and dry mixed recyclables. These are placed in different coloured plastic bags and taken away in delivery vehicles back to the distribution centre where general waste is compacted and sent to an energy-from-waste plant.

As a result, all wheelie bins were removed from retail sites, saving space and money for the company; the pre-sorted bags of waste are also collected more often than through traditional means. In the past year, 415 tonnes of waste have been diverted from landfill, with 4,700 tonnes of recycled materials collected and sorted across the country, helping Screwfix to meet its zero waste to landfill objectives across its UK stores.

As part of a second scheme, that deals with chemical and hazardous wastes from distribution centres, Screwfix has been working with recycling and collection company, SAICA Natur, to come up with solutions for the waste produced. This included flammables, non-hazardous liquids, compressed gases and irritants. Staff at Screwfix's distribution centre were given training and guidance on how to work with different hazardous wastes.

Quality Manager at Screwfix, Peter Harries, said the initiatives have been in place for a number of months and 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."