In this episode of Rubbish Talk, we sit down with John Morrison, Waste Strategy Coordinator at South Ayrshire Council, to hear about his fascinating career journey, his thoughts on waste management, and his advice for anyone looking to make a difference in this sector.
John’s career didn’t start in waste management. In fact, he originally worked in electronics. But as the factories began closing down and downsizing, John sought a steady job closer to home. That’s when he came across a position as a street cleaner with South Ayrshire Council. Over the next 5–6 years, John worked his way up through sheer determination and a desire to do more, eventually becoming Waste Strategy Coordinator based at the Walker Road Depot, managing the coastal area from Barassie to Finnarts Bay.
While John always felt he had more to offer while working frontline as a street cleaner, he lacked experience in office roles. John was determined to build new skills, he attended night school to learn computer skills, which ultimately helped him transition into office-based positions.
Since stepping into waste management, John admits that his views on public littering have changed. He often finds himself frustrated by the disregard some people have for proper waste disposal. It’s made him reflect on how far we’ve come in tackling waste issues.
One of the most significant moments in John’s career has been the acquisition of land at the Heathfield site. The new transfer station is a major development for South Ayrshire Council, allowing the council to better manage waste and increase revenue. “It worked out perfectly,” says John, adding that the improvements at Walker Road Depot—once a basic operational site—have transformed it into a full-scale, strategic neighbourhood services centre.
John believes that starting on the ground gave him valuable insight into the challenges of waste management, making him a more effective leader. His experiences have fostered empathy for the team working the frontline, something he carries with him in every managerial decision he makes.
For anyone considering a career in waste management, John’s advice is simple: just go for it. Don’t let a lack of knowledge hold you back—this is an industry where you’ll learn on the job. It’s exciting, full of opportunities, and the people in the sector are eager to share their knowledge.
Outside of work, John used to relax by playing five-a-side football and going to the gym. These days, however, he takes it easier and prefers spending time with his two daughters. Surprisingly, John was also once the vocalist in a local punk rock band called SMEEKERED, performing in pubs across Ayrshire! Click here to Listen Now!
One of the biggest challenges John sees in the waste sector is public perception. There’s still a lot of work to be done in educating the public on the importance of food waste separation and how much waste costs us both financially and environmentally.
As John reflects on his journey from street cleaner to strategy coordinator, one thing is clear—he’s passionate about the waste management sector. And his story proves that with hard work, adaptability, and continuous learning, there are no limits to what you can achieve.
Useful Links
South Ayrshire Council – Bins & Recycling
Environmental News Updates
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Review of Enforcement of Litter and Flytipping Offences in Scotland by Helanna Cooper
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East Ayrshire Council Dedicates £10M to Waste Management Overhaul
East Ayrshire Council has committed over £10 million to revamp its waste management system, introducing new vehicles and infrastructure. In the next 18 to 24 months, the council will switch to a four-bin collection system, including soft plastics like fruit wrappings and crisp packets, aiming to significantly improve kerbside services over the next decade.
Shropshire to Discuss Waste Minimisation Strategy
Shropshire Council is set to discuss a new Waste Minimisation Strategy aimed at reducing household waste by 20% by 2030. With waste collection and disposal costing £35 million annually, the strategy will work to reduce waste from 1,160 kg to 928 kg per household, using 2013 figures as the baseline.
Genetically Modified Flies to Combat Food Waste
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Unilever Partners with University of Nottingham to Transform Flower Waste
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Albion News
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Resourcing Scotland Event – November 2024
This is a new event for the waste and recycling industry, organised jointly by ESA/SESA, CIWM (Scotland), RMAS, REA and the Local Authority Waste Managers and Officers Network.
Taking place on Thursday 14th November at the Assembly Rooms in Edinburgh, the overarching theme for the conference is Operationalising Policy, focusing on the key topical issues for the industry with participation by sector experts.
Upcoming Training Courses!
HWRC – Household Waste Recycling Centre Operators Course
Wednesday 23rd October 2024
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