‘Simpler Recycling’ with Split Lift units

THE UK GOVERNMENT has set an ambitious target: by 2035, 65% of all waste in England should be reused or recycled. To meet this goal, it has recently updated its #SimplerRecycling scheme, aimed at standardising recycling practices across the country.

‘Simpler Recycling’ seeks to achieve three main objectives: improve recycling rates, simplify waste management and combat #WasteCrime. This approach mandates that all local authorities collect the same ‘core’ set of recyclable materials – paper, cardboard, plastics, glass, metal and food waste – regardless of location. It also requires that dry recyclables be collected in a single bin. This means all properties will have just three bins to manage: dry recyclables, food waste, and non-recyclables (with an optional extra bin for garden waste).

There are two key milestones:

🗓️ 31 March 2025: Core recycling materials are collected from businesses, schools, and hospitals
🗓️ 31 March 2026: Weekly food waste collections and ongoing core recycling collections for households

Split Lift units to the rescue

As we approach these milestones, we predict that Split Lift vehicles (such as the Dennis-Eagle OL21-W) will play an increasingly important role in helping councils meet these targets for several reasons:

1️⃣ Increased Efficiency
Split lift vehicles can collect multiple waste streams, such as recyclables and general waste, in one trip. This reduces the number of trips needed, saving time, fuel, and lowering greenhouse gas emissions. By keeping waste streams separate at the point of collection, these vehicles also minimise contamination, ensuring more materials are recycled effectively.

2️⃣ Cost Savings
By handling different waste types in one trip, split lift vehicles reduce the need for multiple vehicles and crews. This results in significant cost savings through fewer trips and optimised routes, making waste management operations more cost-effective and allowing for reinvestment in recycling infrastructure.

3️⃣ Ongoing Adaptability
Split lift vehicles collect two types of waste, but the specific types can be adjusted as needed. This flexibility means that they can efficiently manage evolving recycling practices to meet the designated material requirements across different regions.

The challenge ahead

Recycling rates in England have increased from 11% in 2011 to 42% in 2022 – rates have recently plateaued. The original target of 50% by 2020 was missed.

Despite progress rates of increase in recycling have recently plateaued. The original target of 50% by 2020 was missed. Achieving the new 65% target will clearly be challenging.

At Endurance Vehicle Solutions our fleet development strategy is not just about acquiring the cleanest or most efficient vehicles. It’s also about making available the configurations that best support our customers’ in meeting the increasingly demanding targets imposed upon them. Our team is here to help councils across England navigate their ongoing and evolving endeavours to care for our environment.

Contact us today to discuss how our split lift vehicles – and other vehicles in our extensive range – can enhance your waste management strategy. Call our team on +44 (0)1291 440 750.