29th Jan 2020 10:23
(Alliance News) - Waste management and recycling firm Biffa PLC has opened a new "state-of-the-art" recycling facility in County Durham, it said on Wednesday.
The Seaham site cost GBP27.5 million and will recycle plastic bottles. Biffa said it is one of the most modern and technologically-advanced of its kind in the world.
The plant will be capable of recycling around 57,000 tonnes of plastic a year, equivalent to 1.3 billion plastic bottles.
The plastic will be converted back into high-purity plastic pellets which can be sold on to drink makers and other manufacturers. The pellets could be used in a range of industries, from food and drink packaging to clothing, Biffa said.
High Wycombe-headquartered Biffa said the site will generate revenue of around GBP40 million per year.
"This facility will help the UK address two of its most pressing issues - plastic waste and the climate emergency. Whilst we must work towards reducing overall plastic consumption as a society, the fact remains that plastic has a vital role as a lightweight, durable, low energy-intensity material, that if recycled properly can have a sustainable role in modern life," said Biffa Chief Executive Michael Topham.
"Facilities like ours at Seaham will help ensure that we can recycle our own plastic waste here in the UK, creating jobs in the green economy and stimulating the development of more sustainable packaging."
Biffa also announced a new GBP7 million facility in Washington, Tyne & Wear, expanding its recycling of plastic tubs and trays. This site, to be built over the next 12 months, will be able to handle 20,000 tonnes of plastic a year, Biffa said.
Biffa shares were trading flat on Wednesday morning in London at a price of 286.50 pence each.
By George Collard; [email protected]
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