Glass is the gift that keeps on giving

Glass is 100% recyclable and can be recycled endlessly without loss in quality or purity. This is why it is labelled the gift that keeps on giving and is an essential part of your business waste and recycling strategy.

One of the biggest benefits of recycling glass is that very little waste is generated in the recycling and manufacturing process and it can therefore be used to produce the same product time and again.

How much carbon does glass recycling save?

Every tonne of glass re-melted saves 246kg of carbon dioxide emissions as well as decreasing the energy needed to make glass. An additional carbon benefit is that reusing glass reduces the reliance on virgin raw materials.

Why is glass recycling good for the environment?

Glass does not decompose and therefore puts a strain on landfill. Reports suggest it would take one million years for a simple glass bottle to completely break down under normal landfill conditions.

The four main ingredients of glass are sand, soda, ash and limestone which are quarried which can damage landscapes, affecting the natural environment and using more energy in the process. So, recycling glass is a far less damaging way to produce new glass items.

What different types of glass waste are there and who produces it?

Many businesses have glass waste of various types which are used for different purposes. The most obvious industry producing glass and related waste are glaziers. Frosted, patterned or straight glass may be used for windows, with offcuts and broken glass during the process commonly going to waste. Such glass may be toughened or tempered to produce a different strength or thickness.

Hospitality is another large producer of glass waste, usually in the form of glass bottles for drink storage and jars for food storage.

How easy is it for my business to recycle glass?

Whatever your business, as long as you have enough to regularly fill a bin with empty glass items it is therefore recommended that you organise a separate glass collection service. Spectrum recycling can provide separate bins and collections to bars, restaurants, hotels, canteens and food outlets as well as glaziers. This waste will then be recycled at a glass recycling facility.

For a glass waste recycling quote please don’t hesitate to contact us