Rubbish Talk

Episode 111: News Roundup & Deep Dive into PFAS: The Next POPs?

News Roundup  Simpler Recycling: More Headlines, More Confusion [https://www.express.co.uk/news/uk/2203542/rubbish-items-banned-recycling-uk-rules]  Simpler Recycling continues to generate some questionable headlines, with articles listing items “banned” from recycling — many of which were never recyclable in the first place. Alasdair and Jane question why the messaging is so negative, instead of focusing on education, clearer guidance and the benefits of getting recycling right.  Smelly Bins and Food Waste Fears [https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/26090852.business-offers-bin-odour-fix-new-waste-rules-come/]  A business has launched a product aimed at tackling bin odours linked to food waste collections. Jane and Alasdair aren’t convinced this is the real issue — if food waste is collected weekly and separated properly, the system should be cleaner and less smelly than leaving food in residual waste.  Can You Recycle Empty Crisp Packets? [https://www.bristolpost.co.uk/whats-on/food-drink/binman-settles-debate-put-empty-10950625]  Another recycling debate doing the rounds: crisp packets. It’s a reminder of how much confusion still exists around what can and can’t go in household recycling — and why tools like MyBins are so useful. Perfect timing with South Ayrshire Council residents being given the chance to download for free the new MyBins app, which is now live in South Ayrshire Council.  Sustainability at Events: Cups, Bottles and Marathons  Paris Marathon has taken a major step by banning single-use plastic bottles and disposable paper cups at on-course aid stations, requiring runners to bring reusable hydration containers. Jane and Alasdair discuss the practical challenge — especially for faster runners — but agree that events need to think much harder about waste, from water stations to t-shirts, medals and catering.  Food Waste Campaign in South Ayrshire  South Ayrshire Council is running a food waste campaign to encourage residents to use their food waste collections properly. Alasdair notes that participation in Scotland remains low despite services being in place for years — and questions whether councils should also be highlighting the significant savings possible when food waste is removed from residual bins.  Topic: PFAS – The Next POPs?  This week’s deeper discussion focuses on PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances — often called “forever chemicals” because they break down extremely slowly in the environment. The UK Government recently consulted on adding five new Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) into UK law under the assimilated POPs Regulation [https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/amendments-to-the-persistent-organic-pollutants-pops-regulation-2026⁠  ⁠https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/persistent-organic-pollutants-pops⁠ ] A major concern for the waste sector is the introduction of stricter UTC limits (Unintentional Trace Contaminant limits), which determine how much of these chemicals can legally remain in products and materials. If limits are exceeded, recycling may become impossible and disposal costs could increase significantly.  A key issue is the tension between environmental protection and circular economy goals. While reducing harmful chemicals is clearly positive, stricter POP limits could also push more material towards disposal or incineration, making recycling more difficult and expensive.  Ultimately, the big question for the sector is not just banning these chemicals in future products — but how we deal with the millions of tonnes of materials already containing them.    Rant of the Week: Who Helps the Waste Sector Deal With This?  This week’s rant is focused on the practical reality of new POPs rules. The UK has obligations under the Stockholm Convention, so changes are coming — but once these materials enter the waste stream, operators are often left to manage the consequences with limited support.  We’ve already seen how difficult this can be with POPs in upholstered furniture. If PFAS and other POPs are tightened further, the sector needs clear guidance, realistic testing routes, and proper support on how these materials should be handled.  Otherwise, the risk is simple: more complexity, more disposal, higher costs — and another major environmental problem landing at the feet of the waste industry.

Episode 110: Tina Jackson, Founder of Comply Digital, Jackson Consultants & the Technically Competent Managers Forum

This week on Rubbish Talk, Alasdair is joined by Tina Jackson, founder of Comply Digital, Jackson Consultants, and the Technically Competent Managers (TCM) Forum, for a fascinating conversation about compliance, confidence, and building better collaboration across the waste sector. Tina shares how she originally entered the industry through a commercial role in landfill and recycling after working in construction materials sales. Following a redundancy several years later, she unexpectedly found herself setting up her own consultancy business — something she admits was initially terrifying after spending 20 years employed. Five years on, the business has grown significantly, with Tina now supporting operators across the country through consultancy, TCM services and digital compliance systems. A big focus of the episode is the development of Comply Digital, a platform designed to help operators and TCMs manage compliance, site inspections and environmental responsibilities all in one place. Tina explains how the idea originally started as a way to streamline TCM reporting, but quickly evolved into a wider operational tool that gives businesses better visibility across multiple sites — from compliance actions and complaints to monitoring schedules and training records. The conversation also explores the growth of the TCM Forum, which Tina created after recognising a lack of shared knowledge and support within the sector. What started as an informal idea has grown into a network of more than 50 members, bringing together TCMs, environmental managers and operators to discuss legislation changes, consultations and industry challenges. Through the forum, members have even contributed feedback directly into discussions with the Environment Agency on permit and regulatory changes. A key theme throughout the episode is the importance of collaboration and confidence. Tina reflects on how many people in the sector feel isolated or worry they should know everything, when in reality sharing knowledge and asking questions is one of the biggest strengths the industry can have. She also discusses the value of networking, site visits and creating spaces where people can openly discuss challenges without judgement. The discussion naturally turns to some of the wider frustrations within waste management, particularly around inconsistency in regulation and enforcement. Tina and Alasdair both highlight how different interpretations and approaches across sites and regulators can create confusion, while poor enforcement of existing legislation continues to drive waste crime and bad practice. Towards the end of the episode, Tina shares her advice for anyone entering the waste sector: jump in, learn as much as you can, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. As she explains, waste management is far more innovative and complex than many people realise — and once you’re in the industry, it’s very hard to leave. A brilliant conversation covering compliance, collaboration, technology and confidence — and a reminder that the waste sector works best when knowledge is shared, not siloed. Useful Links: Jackson Consultants Website [https://protect.checkpoint.com/v2/r06/___http:/www.jacksoncl.co.uk___.ZXV3MjphbGJpb25lbnZpcm9ubWVudGFsMTpjOm86ODZlZmUxODA3Nzk3MTdmOGZiOWVlMjhmODViZWM1NjE6NzpiZmIyOjU3NDgxNGIxMzA0NTE0ZDUxZGM1MzNmZTU3MjM2NzQ5N2ZhMTViZmZiNWMyY2ZkMTU3ZWNkYTJlM2UyYjQzOWM6aDpGOkY] Compli Digital Website [https://protect.checkpoint.com/v2/r06/___http:/www.compli-digital.co.uk___.ZXV3MjphbGJpb25lbnZpcm9ubWVudGFsMTpjOm86ODZlZmUxODA3Nzk3MTdmOGZiOWVlMjhmODViZWM1NjE6NzoyYzgzOjM5Y2I3ZTcxYWY4MjJkZmE4NTE4MmMzYjNkOTk5MjU5NmQ0MDFiNDAzNGFiOTlkZjZjMDc3NTdkOGZiZDg3MWU6aDpGOkY]

Episode 109: Henrik Webster, CEO, Aspect Labs Ltd

This week on Rubbish Talk, Alasdair is joined by Henrik Webster, CEO of Aspect Labs Ltd, to explore the often-overlooked relationship between the waste sector and insurance — particularly the growing challenges around fires, lithium-ion batteries, and risk management. Henrik shares his journey into insurance, starting in reinsurance back in 2013 before moving into the recycling insurance space. After seeing the challenges operators were facing firsthand, he co-founded his own Managing General Agent (MGA), eventually launching Aspect Labs in 2023. Today, the business specialises in property insurance for higher-risk sectors, including waste and recycling, while also developing its own technology and surveying services. A major focus of the conversation is how the waste sector has changed over the last decade — particularly with the rise of lithium-ion battery fires. Henrik explains how insurers increasingly pulled away from the recycling sector as claims and losses mounted, resulting in fewer providers, rising premiums, and stricter conditions for operators. While he acknowledges the insurance industry hasn’t always handled these changes well, he also highlights the scale of the challenge, with waste fires now seen as a major and ongoing risk. The discussion dives into the realities of insurance policies and why operators should pay closer attention to what they’re actually covered for. Henrik stresses the importance of reading policy wording carefully, understanding exclusions, and engaging with insurers earlier in the renewal process — rather than leaving it until the last minute. He explains that many policies are still based heavily on statistics and assumptions, but building relationships and allowing insurers to properly understand a site can help create more tailored and practical solutions. AI and technology are another big theme throughout the episode. Henrik believes that while regulation and public awareness are important, technology may ultimately provide the biggest breakthroughs in reducing fires — from AI systems capable of detecting lithium-ion batteries and off-gassing, to smarter risk management and monitoring tools. Aspect is already investing heavily in this area, both internally and through its own technology company. The conversation also explores wider business lessons, with Henrik reflecting on entrepreneurship, long-term thinking, and managing “existential risks” — major events like catastrophic fires that could shut down a business entirely. He also discusses emerging challenges for the sector, including solar panels on waste facility roofs, increasingly complex waste streams, and how modern legislation has transformed waste management into a far more technical and higher-risk industry. Towards the end of the episode, Henrik encourages younger people entering either insurance or waste to focus on relationships, communication and understanding the bigger picture. As AI automates more routine work, he believes the ability to collaborate, build trust, and solve problems across industries will become even more valuable. A fascinating episode that offers a rare insight into the insurance side of the waste industry — and highlights just how connected risk, regulation, technology and operations have become in the modern waste sector. Useful Links: Aspect Labs Ltd Website [https://aspect.insure/] Henrik Webster LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/henrik-webster-74308b54/]

Episode 108: Aaron McIntyre, Managing Director, AWD Environmental Ltd

This week on Rubbish Talk, Alasdair is joined by Aaron McIntyre, Managing Director of AWD Environmental Ltd, to dive into the world of hazardous waste, entrepreneurship, and building a business in the waste sector. Aaron shares his journey into waste, which began in a somewhat unexpected way. Starting out in a science role working with chemicals in a lab, he moved into hazardous waste during a period of uncertainty — and quickly realised it was an industry he genuinely enjoyed. From there, he built up extensive experience across transfer stations, treatment facilities, landfill operations and major projects, including decommissioning work and site set-ups, before eventually taking the leap to start his own company. Now nearly three years into running AWD Environmental, Aaron explains how the business has naturally evolved into two key areas: hazardous waste services and consultancy support for other operators. What started as a cautious step into self-employment has grown steadily, supported by industry relationships and a strong technical background. A key focus of the episode is hazardous waste — an area not often covered on the podcast. Aaron breaks down what it actually means in practice, explaining that anything with hazardous properties requires a far more controlled and regulated approach. Unlike general waste, hazardous materials can’t simply be collected and taken away — they require detailed pre-acceptance checks, documentation, and confirmed disposal routes before they even leave site. This can often come as a surprise to customers, particularly when dealing with unknown or poorly labelled materials. Aaron also reflects on his career path, from hands-on technical roles to site management and eventually running his own business. He shares honest insights into the realities of the industry — including learning from mistakes (sometimes the hard way!) and how taking on responsibility for others fundamentally changes your approach to safety. Looking ahead, Aaron is focused on growing the business further, with plans to expand both the operational and consultancy sides. He’s also exploring opportunities around technology and AI, looking at how systems and innovation could improve processes within the waste sector. The episode also touches on wider industry perceptions, with Aaron highlighting the frustration around misinformation — particularly the idea that “nothing gets recycled.” Having worked on sites that do genuinely good work, he emphasises the importance of helping people better understand what the industry can and can’t do, rather than oversimplifying or misrepresenting it. To wrap up, Aaron shares advice for those entering the sector: get involved, ask questions, and understand the “why” behind what you’re doing. Waste is far more complex than it appears, and taking the time to understand the bigger picture can make a huge difference in developing a career. A great episode that combines technical insight, real-world experience and honest reflections on building a business in the waste sector — and a fascinating look into the often unseen world of hazardous waste.

Episode 107: Kirstie MacDougall, Office & Training VQ Administrator, Albion Environmental

This week on Rubbish Talk, we do something long overdue — shining a spotlight on one of our own. Alasdair is joined by Kirstie MacDougall, Office & Training / VQ Administrator at Albion Environmental, to explore the world of waste training, qualifications, and what really goes on behind the scenes. Kirstie shares her journey into the sector, having joined Albion over seven years ago from a financial compliance background. Like many in waste, it wasn’t a career she initially planned — but the opportunity to make a real impact through training and development quickly drew her in. Her role now spans everything from organising site-based training courses to supporting individuals through qualifications, including the all-important Certificate of Technical Competence (COTC). A big focus of the episode is the launch of Albion’s “Smarter Pathway” — a new approach to helping candidates complete their qualifications. Developed in response to client feedback, the programme breaks learning down into manageable modules, combining short videos, workbooks and ongoing support. As Kirstie explains, many candidates struggle to balance their day-to-day roles with studying, so this new format allows them to learn in smaller chunks, at their own pace, while still building the knowledge needed for formal qualifications. The conversation also reflects on one of Albion’s standout recent projects — delivering Sustainable Resource Management training to Glasgow City Council staff. Working with a diverse group of candidates, from new starters to experienced operatives, the project highlighted both the challenges and the importance of building confidence and recognising the value of frontline roles. As Kirstie notes, one of the most common phrases was “I’m just a binman” — something the training worked hard to challenge, reinforcing the critical role these individuals play in keeping cities running. There’s also an honest look at the realities of training in the waste sector. From candidates who are nervous about returning to a classroom environment, to the practical challenges of fitting learning around busy site operations, Kirstie highlights the importance of flexibility, support and understanding individual needs. Beyond the day job, the episode offers a lighter insight into Kirstie’s life outside work — from strength training – with some seriously impressive weights! To playing in a brass band in the Salvation Army. It’s a reminder that the people behind the waste industry bring a wide range of skills and passions to the table. Looking ahead, the focus is on continuing to grow the Albion Academy, expanding training opportunities, and improving how knowledge is delivered across the sector. Kirstie also shares a simple but important message for anyone considering a career in waste: keep an open mind. The industry is far broader and more complex than many people realise, with huge opportunities to learn and develop. A great episode that lifts the lid on training, qualifications and the people supporting the sector behind the scenes — and a reminder that building knowledge is just as important as managing waste itself. Useful Links: Kirstie MacDougall LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirstie-macdougall-03ab5b191/] Smarter Pathway to CIWM (WAMITAB) CoTC [https://www.albion-environmental.co.uk/albion-academy/smarter-pathway-to-ciwm-wamitab-cotc/]