In 2007 we recycled just over 37% of our waste. This success was due to two main factors - the introduction of new processes and procedures and segregating recyclables such as newspaper and magazines from aircraft waste at Grundon's Material Recycling Facility in Colnbrook. Nearly 60% of all aircraft waste is recycled.

Security waste
The security restrictions imposed on passengers in 2006 have resulted in a significant increase in waste generated at our security search areas. In 2007 we put in place procedures for managing this waste more effectively by segregating waste and recycling some of the hazardous material eg. recycling aerosol cans and alcohol bottles. Greater passenger awareness of the security restrictions has also helped reduce waste.

Waste contract

The new contractor started at Heathrow on 1 February 2007. The new contract will help us meet our targets by:

• Using local material recovery facilities to increase recycling
• Using a waste incinerator to generate energy from 2008
• Introducing pollutants, oils and lubricants bins airside to help airlines manage hazardous waste generated during aircraft maintenance
• Compliance with waste regulations achieved.

Energy from waste

To support our BAA corporate strategies on waste and energy, BAA Heathrow commissioned a feasibility study into the emerging waste to energy technologies. This study developed a map of the waste flows at Heathrow and then reviewed the opportunities of generating energy from this waste using the new technologies such as anaerobic digestion, gasification, pyrolysis and MBT (mechanical biological treatment). The results of this study were published in 2007.

Issues and approach
Our plans