This week on Rubbish Talk, we’re joined by Rod Paterson, Senior Purchasing Manager at Ekman Recycling and Commercial Director at Alan Morris Recycling. With a career spanning nearly four decades, Rod takes us on a remarkable journey through the waste and recycling industry — from the early days of emptying septic tanks to steering large-scale purchasing operations for one of the UK’s leading fibre recycling companies.
Rod didn’t originally plan for a life in waste. In fact, he dreamed of working for an airline, but life had other plans. After graduating with a degree in maritime transport, he sent out 284 job applications in a pre-internet world and received just four replies. That persistence landed him a role with Freightliner, launching a career that’s wound through some of the industry’s toughest and most formative experiences. These included being held upside down by his ankles in raw sewage, navigating the macho culture of the1980s waste sector, and undergoing a gruelling four-hour interview to secure his first management role. Despite those challenges, Rod built a career on grit, adaptability, and people skills.
Now with Ekman, a Swedish-owned recycling business, Rod leads the purchasing of waste paper across domestic, European, and export markets. He also heads up commercial efforts at Alan Morris Recycling in North Wales, where he’s focused on growing business, mentoring new team members, and achieving key ISO certifications. One of Rod’s proudest professional moments came in 2023 when Ekman won Paper Recycler of the Year at the Let’s Recycle Awards — a testament, he says, to the dedication and collaboration across his team.
The conversation also covers some of the more unusual moments in his career — like leading a team of 30 litter pickers during the Pope’s visit to Edinburgh, an experience he describes as surreal and unforgettable. At home, Rod remains passionate about recycling, often challenging inconsistencies in local authority systems and urging for better standards. He doesn’t shy away from criticising inefficiencies or calling for more two-way dialogue in the sector — especially on platforms like LinkedIn, where he’s become increasingly vocal.
Looking ahead, Rod’s ambitions are as grounded as they are forward-thinking. He wants to continue expanding Ekman’s operations, strengthen Alan Morris’s market position, and ensure both companies remain adaptable and resilient in a changing industry.
His message to young people entering the sector is clear: if you’re after a 9-to-5 desk job, look elsewhere. But if you’re open to hard work, getting your hands dirty, and forming lasting relationships, waste and recycling can offer one of the most rewarding careers out there.
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Environmental News Updates 🌍
BBC Disclosure: Where Will All My Rubbish Go?
Alasdair made his small-screen debut in BBC Scotland’s Disclosure programme, which tackled the looming question: what happens to the 600,000 tonnes of biodegradable waste Scotland can no longer landfill? As Jane puts it, we’re clearly in the presence of greatness — complete with memorable lines about “rivers of waste” and the elusive “magic bin fairy.” The show took a balanced view of the ban’s implications and featured familiar Rubbish Talk guests like Laura Young, David Balmer, Pam Walker and John Ferguson. The episode raised important questions about capacity, planning, and data accuracy as we hurtle toward the January 1st deadline.
Then came Alasdair’s interview on Radio 5 Live with Matt Chorley, where he was grilled on the consequences of the landfill ban and the lack of alternative capacity. He emphasised that we can’t simply redirect all this waste south of the border without serious consequences. As Jane pointed out, “What happens when the trucks arrive and the landfill says, ‘No space’?” With no quick fix and diverging opinions across the sector, one thing is clear: January 1st is fast approaching, and the pressure is mounting to find workable solutions — before chaos hits.
Exploding Vapes: Has the Ban Made Any Difference?
A tragic explosion in Gainsborough — caused by a vape left charging on a bed —left three people hospitalised and four terraced houses destroyed. Jane called it shocking; Alasdair called it madness. The story reignited their frustration over the ineffective vape ban. As Alasdair explained, many so-called “rechargeable” vapes are just disposable ones with a USB-C port slapped on. Nothing’s changed — except the loophole. Despite regulations, there’s still no working take-back scheme and no clear enforcement from councils or regulators. As Jane summed up: “You’re buying the same thing, chucking it away, and nobody notices.”
Troon’s Laura Honoured for Vape Campaign
Congratulations to Laura Young (Episode 17), who’s been recognised with a Special Recognition Award at the Pride of Scotland for her powerful campaign against disposable vapes. Alasdair gave her a well-deserved shoutout — even if he couldn’t help but rant about the loopholes still plaguing the ban. Jane reminded us of Laura’s recent efforts promoting the beachside toy library in Troon, showing she’s just as committed to community as she is to environmental change. Well done, Laura — your efforts don’t go unnoticed!
Garden Waste Debate 2025: Your Brown Bin Cost Review
Jane and Alasdair tackled the rising cost and confusion around brown bin charges in Scotland, following Albion’s recent blog. With huge differences in fees and collection frequency — like Falkirk’s £4.90 per collection versus North Lanarkshire’s £1.60 — they both highlighted the lack of consistency. Jane shared her local frustrations in East Renfrewshire, while Alasdair admitted trimming back to one bin due to cost, only to find himself making extra trips to the tip.
They raised wider concerns about the environmental impact, especially where food and garden waste are co-mingled. With 23 out of 32councils now charging, they questioned if the focus is on revenue over recycling outcomes. As Alasdair put it, “It’s a good money-maker, but where’s the evidence it’s helping?”
Binn Eco Park Open Day: Circular Economy in Action
Alasdair visited the Binn Eco Park during a Resource Management Association Scotland (RMAS) open day, which inspired much of the discussion later featured in Episode 64 with Guy McGregor. The tour highlighted co-located operations including fridge recycling, anaerobic digestion, composting, wood recycling, and on-site renewable energy — all working together to reduce waste transport and boost circularity.
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Rubbish Talk Strava Club
The Rubbish Talk Strava club is the perfect way to stay motivated and explore new routes—whether you’re tackling mountain trails or just sneaking in a quick walk. Lace up your trainers, catch up on Rubbish Talk episodes and stay tuned for weekly leaderboard posts!
Rubbish Talk on TikTok!
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