Regional event offers a RAY of light for Yorkshire and Humber Plastic Recycling << Back to Main News Page Added: Monday, 19 June 2006 New research undertaken by Recoup on behalf of Recycling Action Yorkshire suggests that there is significant demand from reprocessors for plastic material in Yorkshire and the Humber that far outstrips collection levels. The report has provided RAY with an overview of plastic recycling activities in the region including local authority collection schemes, plastics handling and processing at MRFs (Material Reclamation Facilities), plastic reprocessing activities and details on waste management contractors collecting plastics in the region. The research identified 18 reprocessing facilities in Yorkshire and Humber that collectively reprocess just under 60 Kt of material per annum. The majority of this is post industrial material, with only a limited share arising from within the area. Of the 21 collection authorities located in the Yorkshire and Humber region, 20 now offer facilities for plastic bottles, collecting 4160 tonnes annually. This represents 13% of the total, potential 32,000 tonnes available. There is considerable scope for growth. Some of the main opportunities for this are through expansion of kerbside collection schemes in the area and in linking local authorities with reprocessors. Andrew Hartley, RAY programme director said that "the report shows that local authorities struggle to fund plastic bottle collections, and as a result of this RAY will be working across the region to support local authority schemes. RAY will also support reprocessors to invest in technologies enabling them to compete more effectively with export markets for regional plastics." In light of this information Recycling Action Yorkshire ran a one-day workshop on 10th May, with the aim of developing a 'Regional Action Plan for Plastics'. The workshop was attended by Recoup and included contributions from plastic reprocessors, local authorities, the WRAP plastics team and ROTATE. Copies of the report can be downloaded via the RAY website at www.recyclingaction-yorkshire.org.uk.