The following practical initiatives are implemented across our operations to help reduce our use of natural resources and minimise our environmental impact.
Green Waste
We aim to recycle 100% of our green waste; all hedge cuttings, weeds and soft vegetation arising from the works is taken back to our yard to be composted and used as fertiliser. Larger vegetation and timber can be chipped using a brushwood chipper and is available as mulch for shrub beds and borders.
Other contaminants, glass, plastics, metals (i.e. general litter) are segregated where practical to allow for ease of recycling.
Waste Oil and Oil Contaminated Materials
Waste oil, mostly from engine oil changes, is carefully stored in a 205 litre re-sealable drum. When a drum is full, it is collected by a specialist waste oil collection contractor and is taken for recycling. We will not store more than 200 litres for more than 12 months.
Other oil contaminated materials e.g. oil filters, absorbent granules, cloths etc. are stored separately and disposed of in an environmentally responsible manner. Our staff always use oil resistant gloves when handling old engine oil and oil contaminated materials.
Pesticides
We only use environmentally friendly weed killers and take all steps to avoid pollution to the ground, air and water by pesticides, fuels, oils, and other hazardous materials.
As a rule, we triple rinse all empty pesticide containers and add rinsing to the sprayer. Empty waste pesticide containers, caps and foils are then stored separately in a secure area. We maintain records of each container, and when enough containers have been amassed, we contact a licenced contractor to ensure their safe collection, removal and recycling.
For all waste collected and transferred, our approved collection companies have appropriate certificates, licences and documentation; and we retain copies and ensure that completed Waste Transfer Notes are left on each visit and retained for three years.
Depot Waste
We aim to minimise the amount of depot-generated waste by taking steps to be as energy-efficient as possible, such as using low energy light bulbs and switching off electrical appliances when not in use.
We also take care to recycle paper, cardboard, glass, tins, and plastics used in our offices, as well as collecting rainwater to water plants.