As part of today’s Global Recycling Day Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) has announced it has reached a 90% recycling rate.
Since installing a Mobile Segregation Unit (MSU) at Brighton station in September the facility has saved over 160 tonnes of waste going to incineration.
GTR runs Southern, Thameslink and Great Northern services and expects over 320 tonnes to be recycled in Brighton station throughout 2022.
Over the last six months GTR has increased recycling rates to 90% compared to an average of 30% before the MSU’s installation.
Keith Jipps, GTR’s Infrastructure Director commented on the operator’s commitment to recycling.
Mr Jipps said: “We’ve made a commitment to the UK’s green recovery which means seeking out innovative solutions to deal with waste.
“Prior to the pandemic, around 12% of the total waste collected across GTR’s 800-mile network came into Brighton.
“As lockdowns and restrictions have seen fewer people travelling, this has reduced to 5% but is steadily on the rise as the country adapts to new ways of working.
“With this scheme we’re achieving zero to landfill, with any waste that cannot be recycled turned into energy.”
The MSU at Brighton is the second biggest of its kind on the UK rail network with one installed at London Victoria in 2020.
Caroline Lucas, MP for Brighton Pavilion said: “It's brilliant to see the impact the new MSU at Brighton station has already made.
“This is a great example of how small changes can make a huge difference - and quickly!
“I'm proud that so many businesses in Brighton are stepping up and making their systems and practices more sustainable, despite incredibly challenging circumstances.
“I wholeheartedly support GTR's aim of delivering the highest recycling rate of any station on the rail network.”
GTR is installing 1,300 new cycle parking spaces at its stations and developing 90 landscaping and rewilding projects.
The operator is also offering local young people the chance to gain horticulture qualifications at 18 stations.
Featured image - PA/Govia Thameslink Railway
