Carpet Recycling UK shortlisted for BusinessGreen Leaders Awards 2014

The shortlisting recognises CRUK’s success in beating its original target of 25% landfill diversion of waste carpet by 2015 two years early. This target was set in 2008 when the organisation was launched to tackle the 400,000 tonnes of waste carpet arising annually in the UK. CRUK is funded by major UK-based carpet manufacturers and distributors who are taking the lead in voluntary producer responsibility.

Engaging the entire flooring sector from the outset and extensive communication to inspire others, such as entrepreneurial organisations, helped CRUK to successfully launch its activities and maintain its upward momentum. CRUK’s next ambitious landfill diversion target is 60% by 2020.

Co-founder and Director of Carpet Recycling UK, Laurance Bird commented: “Five short years ago, barely 3% of waste carpet was recycled or reused. Last year, a record-breaking 107,000 tonnes of waste carpet were reused, recycled and recovered in the UK – up 21% (22,000 tonnes) on 2013. This represents a landfill diversion rate of 27% - an amazing achievement given the bulky and ‘challenging’ nature of this waste stream.

“It’s a tremendous achievement and one that is reaping environmental and economic benefits all round. While there’s still some way to go, thanks to the committed efforts of all parties involved in our activities, carpet is now regarded as a beneficial resource from which valuable raw materials can be extracted for reuse in a second life. “

Now in their fourth year, the BusinessGreen Leaders Awards celebrate the leading businesses, executives, entrepreneurs, investors and campaigners from across the green economy. Winners will be announced on July 2nd at The Brewery in London.

Carpet Recycling UK welcomes enquiries from all types of organisations interested in finding new outlets for their waste carpet.