Boost in carpet landfill diversion

A record 142,000 tonnes of carpet was diverted from landfill in 2016 – meaning 35% of arisings were reused, recycled or recovered for energy, according to latest figures.

This was 14% higher than the 125,000 tonnes reported in 2015 while the rate nine years ago was just 2%.

The figures come from Carpet Recycling UK (CRUK) which calculates that, nationally, there is around 400,000 tonnes of such waste produced each year.

CRUK director Laurance Bird said the improvement was because of support from the organisation’s core funders: Cormar Carpets, Lifestyle Floors/Headlam, Desso, ege, Milliken, Balsan and Marlings.

“These core funders lead the industry in demonstrating extended producer responsibility for carpet throughout its lifecycle. Thanks to their commitment and support, we are continuing to advance sustainability within this sector and drive growth in recycling capacity,” said Bird.

Carpets are made from natural and synthetic fibres, which can be recycled into various new products, including equestrian surfaces, textile felts and plastics.

In 2016, Anglo Recycling launched its Growfelt range of horticultural growing media and Emerald Trading introduced Fibre It equestrian surface products.

CRUK’s has a record 97 members from across the carpet recycling supply chain, including manufacturers, raw material suppliers, recyclers and retailers.

“Growth in membership has been stimulated by increased interest from retailers and flooring contractors to recycle their carpet waste and reduce their disposal costs compared to landfill,” Bird added.