Switching to recycled plastic helps improve sustainability credentials

With the growing emphasis on moving toward net zero, it’s becoming increasingly important to consider every material used in construction or renovation.

At the same time, our requirements and obligations around waste collection and recycling have changed. Weekly refuse collections from the front of a property with a small metal bin 80 or 90 centimetres high which could be discretely hidden again in the back garden or behind a small wall have gone.

Some councils issue as many as 5 large bins per household to sort various recyclable items. Residential apartments are seeing an increase in the number of extra-large recycling bins in their communal areas.

To avoid disorganized bin areas that may encroach on parking or leisure areas, enclosed areas for the bins are generally favoured. There are many solutions for bin enclosures; brickwork, timber, metal and recycled plastic.

Brickwork is generally expensive and labour intensive, but its main drawback is it allows no space for the dispersal of bin ‘aromas’. Some residents have also reported feeling a little vulnerable in a walled off area.

Timber can easily be damaged when large bins are wheeled in and out on collection day. Recycled plastic bin bays certainly have their advantages. The panels are supplied fully assembled and ready to install. No brick work or holes need to be excavated for posts (Ground sockets are provided for the posts), and no maintenance plans are required after installation.

The panels won’t rot or splinter and are very easily cleaned using a jet washer. Louvred panels allow air to circulate, preventing a build-up of unpleasant smells around the bins. Colour choices include Black, Brown, Grey, Green or Beige.
Below: Making a positive impact on the environment.

Mulalley Construction chose recycled plastic bin bays for the project of 132 new homes for New Granville LLP (in partnership with One Housing).