Whether you’re a homeowner clearing out a loft or a contractor managing site waste, you want to know that your waste is being disposed of responsibly.
From skips to the sorting lines, every load collected by ETM Recycling is carefully separated and directed to the most appropriate treatment method. At our state-of-the-art recycling and waste management facility, we provide a range of services for both domestic and trade clients across Bristol and Bath.
In this guide, we explore the various waste treatment methods to help determine which is best for you and the environment.
Types of Waste Treatment Methods
Once your waste arrives at our facility, it doesn’t all go down the same path. Different materials need different treatment methods, and understanding these may help you discover which is the best for the waste produced by your industry.
Physical Treatment
This is what most people think of when they hear “recycling”. It involves separating and reprocessing materials like metal, plastic, and wood so they can be used again. Techniques like shredding, grinding and screening help reduce waste to a manageable size, making it easier to handle and prepare for its next stage, whether that’s reuse, recycling or further treatment.
Pros
- Reduces the need for raw materials
- Cuts carbon emissions compared to producing from scratch
- Keeps materials in use, supporting a circular economy
Cons
- Not all materials are recyclable
- Requires clean, well-separated waste streams
- Contamination can affect quality and value
Thermal Treatment
When waste can’t be recycled, it might be sent for thermal treatment. This includes methods like incineration, pyrolysis, and gasification. These processes use high temperatures to reduce the volume of waste. While it’s not the first choice for recyclable materials, it can be an effective option to dispose of certain types of residual waste.
Pros
- Significantly reduces waste volume
- Can generate energy from non-recyclables
- Useful for hazardous materials
Cons
- Higher emissions than other methods
- Requires a waste management provider with specialist equipment
Biological Treatment
Organic waste, such as food or green waste, is best treated using natural processes.
In biological treatment, microorganisms break down waste through methods like anaerobic digestion. This process can be used to create useful by-products like biogas and nutrient-rich digestate, which are used to make fertiliser or soil-improver. It’s an eco-friendly way to turn waste into something useful and valuable.
Pros
- Great for food and organic waste
- Produces renewable biogas and nutrient-rich by-products
- Helps divert biodegradable waste from landfills
Cons
- Limited to organic waste types
- Not suitable for mixed or contaminated loads
Each of these methods helps to ensure that waste is managed responsibly, making sure as little as possible ends up in a landfill.
Learn more about waste-to-energy solutions in our comprehensive guide >
Choosing the Right Treatment for Your Waste Type
So, with so many options, how do you know which type of treatment is right for your waste? It’s important to get it right, as it can have a significant impact on your sustainability goals and compliance, not to mention your profit margins.
Here are the main factors to consider:
What type of waste are you producing?
If it’s clean and sorted, like wood, cardboard or metal, physical recycling is likely your best bet. However, if you are disposing of leftover food, green waste or biodegradable materials, biological treatment would be the ideal solution. For mixed, contaminated or hazardous waste, thermal treatment could be the most efficient option.
Discover more about hazard waste management, disposal and regulations >
What are your environmental goals?
No matter whether you’re a homeowner or business manager, reducing environmental impact is a priority at the top of many people’s lists right now.
If you’re aiming to reduce your carbon footprint, recycling and biological methods are the best choices. They tend to have lower emissions and support circular practices.
Are you meeting your legal obligations?
Perhaps one of the most significant factors for businesses considering waste disposal methods is your duty of care to dispose of waste responsibly.
Using licensed facilities and making sure waste is treated properly helps you stay compliant and protects your reputation. Cutting corners may end up landing you in trouble, leaving you with hefty fines and legal action.
What’s the most cost-effective solution?
Another important consideration to make is that some treatment methods are more cost-efficient than others, depending on the type of waste and how much you are producing.
At ETM Recycling, we help clients across Bristol and Bath find the right solution for their waste, whether it’s a single skip hire or a full-site waste management strategy. If you’re looking for an ideal waste solution, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team today.
Environmental Impact and Efficiency
The way you handle waste management not only impacts your business but also the environment. Choosing the most efficient and eco-friendly method for your waste type can help reduce carbon emissions and cut down on landfill.
Recycling is one of the most environmentally positive options. By keeping materials in circulation, it saves energy and reduces the need to source raw materials. It’s efficient, too, especially when waste is well-sorted.
Biological treatment is another great green option, breaking down waste naturally and generating renewable energy in the form of biogas.
In comparison to these two methods, thermal treatment tends to have a higher carbon footprint. However, it’s useful for reducing waste volume and recovering energy from materials that can’t be recycled.
Explore ways to reduce your business carbon footprint with recycling >
Responsible Waste Management Solutions from ETM Recycling
While choosing the right waste treatment method is important, so is choosing a waste management partner you can trust to handle it responsibly. At ETM Recycling, we combine expertise, a cutting-edge facility and a commitment to sustainability to make sure your waste is managed the right way.
Whether you’re clearing out a property, managing construction waste, or looking for a long-term solution for your business, we’re here to help.
Get in touch with our friendly team today to find out more about our waste treatment services across Bristol and Bath.
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