Environmental Report 2000 Index

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Case Studies Case Study 2 Waste Reduction and Wood Recyclability Wood from pallets and packaging makes up a large proportion of the solid waste produced by the Offshore Oil and Gas Industry. One major operator is engaged in a process to reduce, reuse and recycle wood as part of its ongoing commitment to environmental improvement. As part of this programme, Wood Recyclability was set up as a community enterprise in 1997. The business has already benefited significantly from the landfill tax credit scheme. With the support of waste disposal experts Shanks and McEwan, £30,000 has been provided for the purchase of equipment for recycling waste wood. Over the last year alone, the business recycled almost 1,000 tonnes of timber that would otherwise have gone to landfill. The business' products range from woodchips to simple furniture, bird boxes and picnic tables. Wood Recyclability employs three full-time staff and offers work placements to people with learning difficulties. So far, the venture has created placements for 28 trainees.