The HTA has launched a Recycling Scheme for its members which will enable businesses of all sizes to responsibly recycle their plastic and other waste and enhance their green credentials.

Partnering with Ecogen, based in Winchester, the scheme will provide a cost saving solution for most by reducing the need for skips and amount of waste going to landfill. For those that have the ability to accumulate volume, ideally through bailing, it could even provide a source of income. Ecogen, who is fully accredited, registered and licensed in all aspects of specialist waste recycling, already work with a number of garden centres and wholesale nurseries across the country.

There are a number of solutions on hand depending on the size of the business and the amount of plastic generated.

The small volume solution – where members collect plastic trays and pots from their own use and stack onto a pallet (up to 2 m high and shrink wrapped). Ecogen will then pick up the pallets (minimum uplift of 1 pallet) for which the business is charged a set haulage fee (depending on geographical location).

The stockpile solution – for members who are able to collect and store larger volumes of recyclable materials (hard plastics, cardboard and plastic wrap). Once haulage costs are taken off there may be a surplus depending on volume, waste type and site location.

Bailing is the most effective way of returning the greatest volume of waste to Ecogen whilst minimalizing haulage costs. Whilst bailers can be hired for around £15 a week the HTA is currently negotiating a national deal which will aim to produce a cost effective solution for members – to run alongside the plastics recycling scheme.

HTA director of operations, Martin Simmons, commented: “Plastics and recycling have become even higher on the national agenda since the coverage on Blue Planet II showing how waste plastic impacts our natural world. Within the garden industry we do have a responsibility to recycle what we currently use, as well as develop innovative alternative solutions.

He adds: “This is an issue that we take very seriously as do our members and their customers. Whilst plastic recycling has been more economical for our larger members this is the first time that we have been able to offer a national recycling solution for members of all sizes.”

Members wishing to take part in the HTA Plastics Recycling Scheme should visit www.hta.org.uk/recycling for further information.