Manchester Airport set to build MRF to treat aircraft waste on-site

Manchester Airport is to install a mini materials recovery facility (MRF) to treat aircraft waste on-site in its bid to achieve its target of zero waste to landfill by 2030.


The initiative is part of a £1.5M contract the airport has signed with outsourcer MITIE, which will run for three years with a possible extension of two years.

MITIE will install the MRF as well as expand the number of recycling schemes in public areas, such as placing mixed-recycling bins beside all general waste bins.

The busiest airport outside of London, Manchester International Airport serves over 18 million passengers each year. The contract award adds to MITIE’s portfolio of work in the aviation sector and at airports across the UK.

Manchester Airport’s managing director, Andrew Harrison, said: “We have our own targets to increase recycling and waste recovery rates at the airport and the new contract will assist us in achieving those aims.

“We are already generating less waste despite increasing passenger numbers and we are continuing to work alongside our airline and retail partners to increase recycling rates.”

MITIE’s managing director of waste & environmental business, Mike Taylor, said: “Our approach to waste management, with a focus on treating waste on-site and changing behaviours, has proven an effective model for the sector and expect similar results for Manchester Airport.

“MITIE is committed to bringing the airport closer to its goal of zero waste to landfill and becoming carbon neutral for its vehicle use and energy consumption by 2015.”

Maxine Perella

Action inspires action. Stay ahead of the curve with sustainability and energy newsletters from edie

Subscribe