Recycling technologies developer Knowaste launches new venture, which sees roofing materials manufactured from recycled plastic in nappies and incontinence products.
The new company, SmallPlanet Building Products Ltd will manufacture a range of roofing solutions made from recycled plastic - initially from a variety of sources.

However, Knowaste's ultimate aim is to utilise the plastic recylates produced at what will be the UK's first nappy recycling plant.

The plant is scheduled to open in Tyseley in Birmingham next spring and will process and sanitise nappies and adult incontinence products, where the plastic will be recreated into a variety of DIY products, including plastic cladding, siding, decking and roof tiles.

The company plan to market and distribute the roofing products to building contractors, roofing supply companies, homebuilders and DIY, hardware and gardening stores.

SmallPlanet general manager Bill Knoupe said: "Our aim is to fill the gap for quality recycled building materials made from products whose disposal would otherwise go to landfill and in doing so, drive the successful introduction of recycled roofing materials in the United Kingdom."

The roofing materials will be manufactured by Mailbox Mouldings in Stalybridge, Cheshire. Roof tiles will be available in a standard black, green, grey, red and brown.

According to Knowaste, more than 750,000 tonnes of nappy waste is disposed of in the UK each year.