Transforming Waste Management for Oxfam.

Oxfam is a globally recognised charity dedicated to combating poverty and social injustice. Operating in over 90 countries, Oxfam works through projects, campaigns, and advocacy to address the root causes of inequality and support vulnerable communities worldwide. With a firm commitment to social and environmental responsibility, Oxfam prioritises sustainable practices in all aspects of its operations, including waste management. However, at their UK site based in Milton Keynes, Oxfam encountered challenges with their waste management system that hindered their sustainability objectives, and they sought an innovative partner to address these issues.

Challenges Faced by Oxfam.

Oxfam’s site experienced several challenges with their waste management processes:

Low Recycling Rates

Despite efforts to recycle, Oxfam’s recycling rate was low, with a significant amount of waste going to general disposal. This not only increased waste-related costs but also conflicted with their environmental goals.

Ineffective Containment and Weather Exposure

Cardboard, one of the main recyclable materials at the site, was stored in open roll-on-roll-off (RoRo) containers, leaving it exposed to rain and weather conditions. Wet cardboard became heavy, leading to higher disposal costs and reduced material value, as the contamination prevented it from being effectively recycled.

Cost Inefficiencies

The lack of efficient waste containment and the need for frequent collections resulted in high operational costs, prompting Oxfam to seek a more sustainable and cost-effective solution.

Recognising the need for a new approach to waste management, Oxfam partnered with Wastetech to develop a solution that would increase recycling rates, reduce waste-related costs, and ensure their waste management practices aligned with their commitment to sustainability

Wastetech’s Tailored Solution.

Wastetech worked closely with Oxfam to design a waste management strategy that addressed each of the site’s unique challenges. Their approach focused on improving waste segregation, implementing efficient containment methods, and fostering a culture of sustainability among staff.

  1. Baling Technology Implementation
    Wastetech introduced baling technology to compact recyclable materials, including cardboard and plastics. By baling these materials, Wastetech reduced the volume of waste, cutting disposal costs and minimising the frequency of waste collections. The bales also had a higher market value, allowing Oxfam to sell them as recyclable commodities and generate revenue, turning a former cost centre into an income source.
  2. Site Mapping and Material Segregation
    Wastetech conducted a detailed analysis of the site, mapping areas where different waste materials were generated. They identified the locations where cardboard and plastic waste were most commonly produced and installed appropriate containment solutions in these areas. With clear segregation of materials before baling, this approach improved the overall quality of recyclable materials and simplified the collection process.
  3. Behavioural Change and Staff Engagement Initiatives
    Wastetech understood that the success of the new system relied on active staff participation. To promote a shift in recycling behaviour, they installed digital and printed signage throughout the site, guiding employees on proper disposal practices and highlighting the positive environmental impact of their efforts. The signs acted as daily reminders of Oxfam’s sustainability goals, empowering employees to play an active role in the recycling process. Wastetech also conducted workshops to further engage staff, fostering a culture of sustainability and responsibility that became ingrained in day-to-day operations.

Project Results.

The results of Wastetech’s intervention were transformative. Within the first 3-months, Oxfam’s site achieved a remarkable 84% recycling rate—a significant improvement over previous levels and this has increased even further in their first year working with us. The reduction in general waste has also resulted in a 44% savings in waste management costs, thanks to fewer waste collections and revenue from the sale of baled recyclables. By reducing the volume of general waste, Oxfam successfully cut operational expenses while aligning with their environmental commitment. Wastetech continues to support Oxfam in maintaining and enhancing these improvements through ongoing site assessments and training.

Key Project Deliverables.

  • Introduction of Baling Technology: Baling equipment allowed for the compaction of cardboard and plastics, reducing disposal costs, cutting down on collection frequency, and generating revenue from recyclable materials.
  • Strategic Site Mapping for Waste Segregation: Wastetech identified key areas of waste production and provided appropriate containment to improve segregation, supporting recycling and reducing contamination.
  • Employee Engagement and Behavioural Change Initiatives: Through strategically placed signage and staff workshops, Wastetech encouraged proper disposal practices, fostering a culture of recycling and sustainability throughout the site.
  • Dramatic Increase in Recycling Rates: Recycling levels soared to 84%, surpassing initial goals and demonstrating Oxfam’s commitment to sustainability.
  • Significant Cost Savings: Wastetech’s interventions led to a 44% reduction in waste management expenses, allowing Oxfam to reallocate resources to further its charitable work.

Conclusion.

By partnering with Wastetech, Oxfam has transformed its waste management approach, achieving significant environmental and financial benefits. Wastetech’s custom solutions have not only improved recycling rates and cost efficiencies but have also fostered a culture of environmental responsibility at Oxfam’s site. This case exemplifies how tailored waste management solutions can help organisations align operational practices with core values, demonstrating that sustainability can go hand-in-hand with cost-effectiveness.