Kerbside boxes a ‘wheelie’ good idea says minister

Bryson Recycling, which is part of the Bryson Charitable Group, has introduced a new approach to recycling in Northern Ireland which is set to be extended throughout the United Kingdom.

The local company, which is based in Mallusk, has over 20 years experience in the industry and provides weekly recycling collections to over 170,000 homes across six council areas in Northern Ireland.

Environment Minister, Mark H Durkan MLA, visited the plant to experience first-hand how the Bryson model is proving to play a key role in recycling across the UK.

He said: “Bryson Recycling is a fantastic example of how the social enterprise model can deliver high quality, efficient and cost effective services while supporting 1,000 local jobs .

“The company currently processes recyclables collected from over 60% of households in NI and also makes a concentrated effort to find local markets for these materials.

“It is encouraging to see the emerging Bryson model creating such interest across Councils in the UK.”

Bryson has been working with key local councils including Newtownabbey and Castlereagh to increase recycling levels and awareness through the introduction of almost 5,000 wheelie boxes for customers.

Homeowners in these areas have been amongst the first across the UK to try out a more effective way to recycle on a weekly basis.

Eric Randall, director of Bryson Recycling, added: “The wheelie box design has allowed us to bring the next generation of recycling to the marketplace.

“It improves recycling performance, ensures high quality materials and makes the process more efficient for lifting and carrying.

“This product along with our new vehicles provides a cost effective model that many council areas in NI, Wales, and Scotland are now looking upon as a reference point.

“Kerbside sort recycling is the future and we are delighted to be at the forefront of innovation in this area.

“The Bryson model allows us to collect household waste in a way that continues to deliver high quality recyclable materials which can be recycled locally.

“This in turn helps to sustain employment and protect the environment for future generations.”

Bryson Recycling, meanwhile, is encouraging football fans throughout the borough to recycle drinks bottles, cans and any other extra recyclables while watching the World Cup matches at home.

World Cup organisers in Brazil are also making the effort to recycle. They have estimated that five tonnes of materials for recycling will be generated at each match - 320 tonnes at the end of the month long tournament.