Fresh Start Waste Services has been shortlisted for the prestigious National Recycling Awards in the category of Campaign of the Year (up to £10,000). Their nomination recognises the success of their “Simpler Recycling for Schools” campaign, which launched in 2023, aimed at preparing schools for upcoming legislative changes in recycling regulations.
The campaign was developed in response to the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) regulations, set to take effect on March 31, 2025. These regulations will require schools to adopt more stringent recycling measures, and Fresh Start Waste Services has taken proactive steps to support this transition.
The campaign kicked off with in-depth research and discussions with schools to assess their understanding of the impending rules and their potential impact. Fresh Start then introduced a comprehensive brochure and an innovative Simpler Recycling Calculator, designed to help schools evaluate their readiness and make the necessary adjustments.
As part of their outreach efforts, Fresh Start Waste Services served as guest sponsors at key educational events, including the Liverpool School Business Managers Association and the Manchester Finance Managers Meeting, where they engaged with over 100 business managers. Additionally, the company’s specialists have been attending events across the country, educating schools about the regulatory changes and providing personalised support to ensure a smooth transition.
Fresh Start has also been actively working within schools, conducting assemblies and meetings to engage both students and staff in the process of implementing new recycling systems. So far, dozens of schools have adopted the systems, resulting in an impressive average recycling rate increase of over 25%, highlighting the campaign’s effectiveness.
Sean Martins, Director of Sales and Marketing at Fresh Start Waste Services, expressed his excitement about the recognition:
“We’re thrilled to be shortlisted for the National Recycling Awards. Our ‘Simpler Recycling for Schools’ campaign is something we’re incredibly proud of, and it’s great to see it making such a significant impact. Helping schools get ahead of the DEFRA legislation has been a priority for us, and the positive response from the education sector has been overwhelming. We’re committed to continuing our efforts in making recycling simpler and more effective for schools across the country.”
This recognition marks a major milestone for Fresh Start Waste Services, as they continue to lead the way in waste management innovation and education.
The nomination for this national award is a testament to the success of Fresh Start Waste Services’ commitment to environmental sustainability and their dedication to helping schools adapt to the new recycling regulations.
The National Recycling Awards recognise and celebrate excellence in recycling, reuse, and waste management, and the winners will be announced later this year.
