Waste

Target

Zero non-hazardous waste to landfill and 90% recycling or reuse by 2030

Our approach focuses on resource circularity, ensuring materials are sustainably sourced and then have as many lives as possible – from designing for longevity, to connecting materials to waste streams to maximise recycling.

Waste on the Estate comes from both construction activities and the day-to-day operations of our occupiers and public spaces. Construction waste volumes vary significantly, but generally have a much higher recycling rate – our focus here is to increase the quality and quantity of data we get from our smaller contractors and reduce waste generation overall through considered focus on material retention and reuse at the beginning of projects.

Operationally, recycling rates are more challenging to influence, but we continue to work in close partnership with our occupiers to provide them with the recycling options they need, as well as focus on optimising bin positioning and signage in the public realm to encourage more effective recycling. We introduced food waste recycling at both Duke of York Square and Pavilion Road in 2022, as well as introducing coffee cup recycling, cartons and flexi-plastics. The introduction of new drinking water fountains in Duke of York Square and on Sloane Street aims to reduce single-use plastic and waste, supporting our virtually single-use plastic free Fine Food Market and programme to tackle single-use plastic across the Estate.

In 2022 there was a 53% increase in the Estate’s operational recycling rate and we maintained over 90% recycling for construction projects. We send zero waste to landfill, and waste not recycled is sent to energy recovery.