Plastic pollution is one of the
global issues of our time. According to the UN Environment Programme, between
19-23 million tonnes of plastic waste leaks into our aquatic ecosystems each
year, contaminating lakes, rivers, and seas. Plastic waste has more than
doubled in the last 20 years, according to the Organisation for Economic
Co-operation and Development (OECD), with only 9% of today’s global waste
successfully recycled.
These stark figures underline the vital need for every citizen and every
business to do their utmost to reduce the impact of plastic waste on our
environment. One significant step for businesses to manage plastic waste in the
UK is the adoption of plastic waste balers. While the machinery itself is
essential, the environmental benefits they offer deserve the spotlight. This
article explores the positive impacts of plastic waste balers, particularly
focusing on their role in enhancing sustainability.
What is a plastic waste baler?
A plastic waste
baler is a machine that compresses and store large
quantities of plastic. It is designed with a pneumatic or hydraulic system that
can effectively compact waste plastic into denser bales, resulting in smaller
and neater bundles that reduce the amount of space required to store plastic
waste.
Reducing landfill contribution
Plastic waste in the UK and globally has been a growing concern, with a
significant portion ending up in landfills and a worrying high volume straying
into our waters. Plastic balers play a crucial role in reducing this landfill
contribution and storing plastic waste more effectively – resulting in less
‘stray’ waste. By compressing and baling plastic waste, the volume of waste
sent to landfills is significantly decreased and more manageable. This not only
conserves space in these sites but also minimises the environmental hazards
associated with landfill waste, such as soil and water pollution.
Lowering carbon footprint
The use of plastic balers contributes to a lower carbon footprint.
Transporting uncompressed plastic waste is inefficient and requires more trips,
leading to higher emissions. Baled plastic, being more compact, optimises
transportation efficiency, resulting in fewer trips and a reduction in the
associated carbon emissions. This is a vital step towards achieving the UK’s
carbon reduction targets.
Promoting recycling and reuse
Plastic balers are instrumental in promoting the recycling and reuse of
plastic materials. By compressing plastics into manageable bales, these
machines facilitate easier handling, storage, and transportation to recycling
facilities. This increased efficiency makes recycling a more viable and
attractive option, encouraging the reprocessing of plastic waste into new
products, thereby reducing the demand for new plastic production.
Energy conservation
The process of recycling baled plastic is significantly more
energy-efficient compared to producing new plastics. By providing a streamlined
way to collect and transport plastic waste to recycling facilities, plastic
balers indirectly contribute to energy conservation. This reduction in energy
consumption is a crucial aspect of environmental sustainability.
Improving workplace efficiency and safety
In addition to their environmental benefits, plastic balers improve
workplace efficiency and safety. These machines enable businesses to manage
their plastic waste more effectively, creating a cleaner and safer working
environment. This streamlined waste management process also leads to a
reduction in the operational costs associated with waste handling.
Enhancing public image and compliance
Businesses that utilise plastic balers for their waste management
demonstrate a commitment to environmental responsibility. This enhances their
public image and aligns with the growing consumer preference for
environmentally conscious brands. Moreover, efficient waste management through
baling helps businesses comply with environmental regulations, avoiding
potential fines and legal issues.
Options available through phs Wastekit
phs Wastekit presents a comprehensive range of plastic baling machines
to rent or buy, that are designed to cater to the diverse needs of businesses across
various sectors. Understanding that each business has unique requirements for
waste management, phs Wastekit offers an array of options to ensure there's a
perfect fit for every scenario.
1. Variety in sizes and capacities: The range includes balers of different sizes and capacities, making
them suitable for businesses of all sizes, from small retail units to large
industrial facilities. Whether it's a compact baler for limited space or a
larger machine for high-volume waste, phs Wastekit has options to meet these
specific needs.
2. User-friendly design: A key feature of phs Wastekit’s balers is their user-friendly design.
These machines are engineered for ease of use, ensuring that they can be
operated safely and efficiently with minimal training. This user-centric design
helps in streamlining the waste management process, making it more efficient
and less time-consuming.
3. Efficient and robust performance: Efficiency is at the core of phs Wastekit’s balers. These machines are
built to handle large quantities of plastic waste, providing consistent and
reliable performance. The robust design ensures that the balers can withstand
the rigours of daily use, making them a durable and long-term solution for
waste management.
4. Environmental compliance: The balers from phs Wastekit are not just about managing waste; they
are also about doing so in an environmentally responsible manner. They help
businesses in reducing their carbon footprint and contribute to sustainability
goals. This is particularly important in the context of stringent environmental
regulations and the growing emphasis on corporate environmental responsibility.
5. Customisation and support: Understanding that each business may have unique requirements, phs
Wastekit offers a level of customisation in their balers. Additionally, they
provide comprehensive support and maintenance services, ensuring that the
balers continue to operate efficiently and effectively over time. This support
is crucial in maximising the lifespan and effectiveness of the investment.
In a nutshell…
The role of plastic waste balers in environmental sustainability is
substantial and multi-faceted. From reducing landfill contribution and stray
plastics polluting our waters, to carbon emissions, promoting recycling and
energy conservation, these machines are pivotal in the fight against plastic
waste. With options available through phs Wastekit, businesses can find the
right tool to join this crucial environmental endeavour. Embracing these innovative
technologies is not just a step towards better waste management but a leap
towards a more sustainable and responsible future. Get in touch with one of our
experts today to find out which plastic baler is best for
your business to rent or buy.