FLOORING
backhauling the Recofloor collections, where possible, when new flooring is delivered. When backhauling is not possible, Recofloor can use a pallet network transport system or choose the best environmental option. All this helps to reduce the impact on the environment and saves on carbon emissions.
All the material collected by Recofloor goes back to Polyflor and Altro for sorting. They recycle suitable material into new flooring, while unsuitable material is sent for recycling into long-life traffic management products, such as traffic cones and sign bases. This means used vinyl is given at least another 10 years’ life in durable products that can ultimately be recycled again.
Key to the scheme’s success is regular communication and engagement with our 500-plus members as we rely on their individual efforts to capture the vinyl flooring for recycling. Without their involvement, the scheme would not be possible. Clear specifications for collected material and a nationwide collection system based on efficient logistics are also important.
More than 6,000 tonnes of waste vinyl flooring have been collected through Recofloor since the scheme started in 2009. This has produced 7,038 tonnes of carbon savings – equivalent to taking 1,837 cars off the road for a year.
It also equates to two million square metres of vinyl flooring having been recycled – enough to cover 276 football pitches. In 2021 alone, 578 tonnes of waste vinyl flooring were collected through Recofloor, saving 678 tonnes of carbon emissions that year.
As well as the environmental benefits, participating in the Recofloor scheme helps construction companies and large contractors showcase their sustainable credentials and earn certification points for accredited schemes, such as BREEAM, SKA and LEED.
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Recofloor members receive a Certificate of Commitment as evidence of their participation in the scheme after their first collection. They can also request a statement letter showing the amount of material collected for a particular project or period of time. If tendering for a new project and they want to show the potential CO2 savings, this can also be added to the statement letter if they provide the project’s square meterage.
With proof of what material has been collected, flooring contractors or construction companies can apply for BREEAM points and environmental certificates. This elevates their ‘sustainability status’ and promoting their involvement in the Recofloor scheme raises awareness, helping to attract more business, especially where evidence of recycling is a requirement in tender processes.
Julian Normie, Managing Director at Bramhall Flooring, said: “We believe that recycling helps the environment and doesn’t contribute to overloaded landfill sites. We have been asked several times to provide evidence that we recycle as this helps clients with their BREEAM ratings – and Recofloor membership helps us to do this.”
Commenting on their environmental commitment, Polyflor’s Sustainability Market Manager, Sonia Goode said: “We are proud to be green, and especially proud of our Recofloor members who are working hard and contributing to our vision to reduce carbon emissions across all our operations. Recycling waste vinyl through Recofloor is a key aspect to achieve this.”
Altro’s Innovation & NPD Manager, Tracy Perry added: “As a co-founder of Recofloor, we recognise the important role the scheme plays in both manufacturers taking environmental responsibility for the materials placed on the market. We’re proud to play our part in advancing sustainability in this sector.”
www.recofloor.org TOMORROW’S FM | 51
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