Grab The Problem By The Bales
As most recyclers and those working in and around equestrian surfaces are more than aware, on 17th of June 2021, the LRWP43 (low-risk waste position) will be withdrawn by the environmental agency from using shredded carpet for any Equestrian Surface.
As a supplier of industrial shredders perhaps we should sit on the side-lines and hope for the best outcome for our customers new and old in the carpet recycling industry, but taking such a meek approach would not define our ethos – We are only as successful as our customers.
So, we have decided that today we will address the elephant in the room.
As a company we understand why this legislation is on the horizon, we understand the concerns for our environment, we have them also, but as we are given the information and the reasons behind the course of action decided, Confusion, concerns and questions are raised from us and from every corner of the carpet recycling industry who stand to lose.
Questions such as, if liners or membranes were used to protect the soil and water source from seepage could the recycled product still continue to be used in equestrian surfaces?
To stop air contamination from the product could the surface be used in enclosed arenas, as opposed to the open air?
or one of the bigger concerns, if carpets at the end of life are of no use, can’t be recycled, and of course, cannot go to landfill what exactly is the course of action intended to dispose of the U. Ks mounds of carpet waste?
There are without question concerns around persistent organic pollutants ( POPs’) and thankfully Carpet Recycling UK (CRUK) is working on developing an understanding of the POPs, fire retardants, and stain-resistant chemicals involved.
So, what can we all do, continue to let the blind lead the blind? Let’s face it the legislation is as clear as mud for all of us.
Carpet Recycling UK is communicating with and representing the sector to the Environment Agency (EA) on their current position relating to the withdrawal of LRWP43. Wouldn’t it be better to get behind them with every question asked or every thought put out there, in order to challenge this decision and find a different outcome instead of, and please excuse the pun… sweeping it under the carpet.
With so many questions left unanswered, simply drawing a halt to carpet recycling for the use of Equestrian surfaces cannot be the end solution.
If you would like to join the working group set up by Carpet Recycling UK in order to represent your sector, please get in touch with them on [email protected] or phone 0161 440 8325 with your questions.