This week’s episode of the Rubbish Talk Podcast, we’re excited to welcome Alex Collman, the founder and managing director of SoilEx, a leading consultancy and waste management company specialising in the construction and demolition sectors. Alex shares his invaluable insights on waste management, industry shifts, and the growth of his business that’s helping clients “make sense of muck!”
SoilEx, founded by Alex over five years ago, operates at the heart of the construction and demolition waste sector. Alex explains how SoilEx offers three key services: consultancy, testing, and waste brokering. Whether it’s advising clients on legal compliance and best practices, conducting soil tests to determine reuse potential, or brokering waste across the country, SoilEx provides a comprehensive, client-centred approach.
A passionate advocate for industry change, Alex highlights how the sector has evolved over the past two decades. When he started in the waste industry, things were much more casual – if something didn’t look “dirty” or smell bad, it was often considered clean. However, with increasing awareness of the importance of proper waste management, Alex saw an opportunity to create a company that could offer real, practical advice while ensuring compliance.
In the podcast, Alex also reflects on his career journey. Here calls how his entry into the waste management world came by chance, starting as a sales coordinator before moving into a compliance role within a major national broker. It was during this time that Alex developed a deep understanding of the regulatory side of the industry. His curiosity and drive led him to start SoilEx with the aim of providing contractors with clear, actionable advice on waste management – something he felt was lacking in the industry.
However, Alex admits that running a growing business is no easy feat. As his company grew, so did the need for systems and clear responsibilities. Today, he is focused on ensuring the company’s structure supports long-term sustainability, allowing for growth without overwhelming the team.
Despite SoilEx’s focus on construction and demolition waste, Alex is personally committed to sustainability. From reducing waste in their office to designing reusable soil sampling kits, Alex and his team at SoilEx are continually looking for ways to minimise their environmental footprint. Alex explains how even small changes, like reusing containers for testing rather than discarding them, can make a big difference. These efforts contribute to SoilEx’s high landfill diversion rates and commitment to sustainable practices.
As Alex points out, construction and demolition waste, particularly soils and stones, is the largest waste stream by weight in the UK. With such a massive amount of waste to manage, Alex sees endless opportunities for innovation and growth in the sector. However, he stresses the importance of ongoing learning and curiosity, both for his team and for those entering the field. His advice to the younger generation? “Never assume you know it all. Stay inquisitive, meet new people, and never stop learning.”
So, whether you’re already in the industry or just curious about the complexities of waste management, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to hear more about Alex’s journey, the lessons he’s learned along the way, and his thoughts on the future of waste management.
Useful Links 🔗
Teabag Video (Discussed in Episode)
Environmental News Updates 🌍
Almost 7 Billion Plastic Bags Will Be Used for UK Deliveries by 2030
As online shopping continues to grow, so does the use of plastic bags for deliveries. According to new data, nearly 7 billion plastic bags will be used annually for UK deliveries by 2030. While the charge for plastic bags in stores has helped reduce their use significantly, online orders seem to be driving this increase. Jane and Alasdair discuss the challenge of balancing reduction in plastic use with the need for practical alternatives for packaging. As Jane points out, “We need to start charging for these bags too, but what are the alternatives?”
UK Vape Ban– 1st June 2025
As the deadline for the disposable vape ban approaches, retailers are being urged to reduce their stocks ahead of the ban on June 1st. Alasdair highlights the staggering figure that 8.2 million disposable vapes are littered or discarded each week in the UK. With the ban coming into effect, Jane and Alasdair reflect on the potential disposal challenges retailers will face when trying to clear old stock. While this is a step in the right direction, as Alasdair says, “Hopefully this will reduce the harm, but it’ll be interesting to see how it’s enforced.”
Fire at Waste Facility in North Lanarkshire
A fire at a waste facility in North Lanarkshire has once again raised concerns over safety in the waste industry. Jane recalls her previous involvement with Mook Environmental Solutions, who pioneered the recycling of toner cartridges. Unfortunately, this incident has led to injuries, showing how hazardous these facilities can be. Alasdair adds, “It’s becoming a regular occurrence, and it’s crucial we continue to improve safety standards.”
Waste Tyre Review After Exports to Indian Furnaces
Following a BBC report revealing that millions of UK waste tyres are being improperly disposed of in India, the Environment Agency has launched a review. Alasdair shares his concern, stating that industries like the car and tyre sectors need to take responsibility for their waste. As he points out, “These sectors can’t continue offloading their waste to other countries.” Jane adds, “It’s crucial that they face up to their responsibilities.”
Car Makers Fined for Withholding Vehicle Recycling Info
A number of car manufacturers, including BMW, Jaguar and Land Rover, have been fined nearly £78 million for withholding critical information about the recyclability of their vehicles. Jane highlights how some manufacturers have been slow to adopt recycled materials in their cars. As Alasdair mentions, “It’s disappointing to see how resistant the industry is to incorporating recycled content, even though it’s possible.”
Albion News
Rubbish Talk on TikTok!
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Rubbish Talk Strava Club: The Challenge Continues
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