In this week’s episode of Rubbish Talk, we had the pleasure of hosting Marcus Holden, Senior Consultant at BACB Renewables. Marcus shared his wealth of experience spanning over 25 years in the waste industry and shed light on the fascinating world of landfills and emerging energy technologies.
With a background in chemistry and extensive experience in project management within the energy sector, Marcus transitioned into consultancy and has become a leading figure in the field of waste management. His journey from chemist to project manager to consultancy has given him a unique perspective on the industry’s evolution.
Marcus enlightened us about the significant advancements in extracting gas from landfills, particularly highlighting the UK’s prowess in technology compared to other countries.
He discussed the challenges faced by landfill sites today, emphasizing the increased difficulty in profitability due to factors like rising landfill tax and inadequate gas production.
Marcus shared memorable experiences from his career, from visiting landfill sites abroad to encountering unexpected incidents like landfill fires and excavator losses. He stressed the importance of technology and innovation in improving landfill operations and reducing environmental impacts.
Marcus expressed his passion for training and knowledge-sharing within the industry, offering valuable training to aspiring professionals. Marcus also shared insights into the future of BACB Renewables, focusing on developing landfill gas clean up technology and introducing advanced digestion (AD) technology for food waste.
Marcus left us within valuable advice for young professionals, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and passion for one’s work.
Useful Links
Marcus Holden’s Linked In Profile
BACB Renewables Linked In Profile
Environmental News Updates
Zero Waste Scotland’s Recycling rate hit an all-time high!
Scotland generated 10.16 million tonnes of waste and recycled 62.3% in 2022, which is the highest recycling rate recorded since the start of the current series in 2011.
The recycling rate increased by 5.3% in 2022 from the 57.0% rate in 2021. SEPA said this reflected economic recovery from the pandemic and an increase in the proportion of construction and demolition material recycled.
The figures also showed only 23.2% of all wastes were disposed of in landfill, which works out to 2.30 million tonnes, an all-time low. While Energy from Waste (EfW) use increased by 8.3%.
West Lothian trial shows reduced levels of contamination.
The Recycle for West Lothian campaign has shown “promising” results in the Armadale and Linlithgow areas. West Lothian council has reported contamination levels decreased significantly.
Biffa preparing £100m lawsuit against Scottish government over DRS
Waste firm Biffa has “threatened” to sue the Scottish government for £100 million over its failed deposit return scheme (DRS). Biffa was the Scottish DRS’s official logistics service provider and had invested over £65 million in preparation for the scheme before it was delayed until at least October 2025. Biffa declined to comment when approached by Circular Online.
CIWM launches new Continuing Competence test for Northern Ireland
The Chartered Institution of Wastes Management (CIWM) has launched a new Continuing Competence test for Northern Ireland which will become the new standard for demonstrating the technical competence of operators of waste management facilities across the country.
CIWM’s Professional Services Project Manager, Jacqui Brunton‑Douglas, said: “The fact that the new Continuing Competence test for Northern Ireland incorporates any differences in working practices and legislation means it will provide an even more accurate and relevant demonstration of technical competence.”
The Textile Recycling Association (TRA), which is the recognised trade association for over 75% of the UK’s used textiles collectors and sorters, said the sector faces an “unprecedented financial crisis” amid global market challenges.
The Association said industry fears it will soon be unable to collect textiles from charity shops, recycling centres and community textile banks because processing plants have reached capacity. Globally, 92 million tonnes of textile waste are produced each year.
Albion News
🚨 Whoops! 🚨
Looks like we got you on April Fools’ Day with our post about “LitterID.” While we’re not actually DNA testing litter, the challenges of littering are no joke. Let’s keep working together to tackle this issue and keep our communities clean!
In this episode Marcus mentions one of our previous guests,
Simon Glen who we have 2 episodes with!
Click the links below to have a listen:
Episode 7: Simon Glen
Episode 28: Simon Glen Back Again – Director of Gather
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