As part of SWWIC’s visit to the Cornwall Energy Recovery Centre on 29 July 2026, we gained fascinating insight into the importance of community engagement in reducing waste and increasing reuse.
Following an introduction from Sarah Cotton, Community Liaison Manager, we toured the control room, plant and waste reception areas before hearing from Olivia Crisp about the wide range of community initiatives SUEZ supports to keep materials out of black bag waste.
Rather than focusing solely on recycling, SUEZ actively builds partnerships to find new uses for unwanted materials. We heard how olive barrels from local business Olives Et Al have been donated to Dartmoor Zoological Society, where Dragan the tiger now enjoys them as enrichment toys. Excess Sunseeker International Ltd boat fabric has also been repurposed by Arts University Bournemouth into new textiles for creative projects.
The session prompted plenty of discussion about the waste generated within our own organisations and how items such as hard hats, expired first aid supplies and other surplus materials could instead be donated to community groups, schools and charities. It was an inspiring reminder that with the right partnerships, waste can become a valuable resource for others.
A huge thanks to Sarah, Olivia, Jemma Pritchard and Peter Mitchell for sharing their expert insights and for their wonderful hospitality, as well as to all our guests who joined us.
