The data represents an increase in the diversion rate of waste carpet from 10% in 2010 to 16.5% in 2011, according to trade association Carpet Recycling UK (CRUK).

This figure is fairly evenly split between recycle and reuse (32,000 tonnes) and energy recovery, mainly in cement kilns (34,000 tonnes).

The proportion of carpet sent for recycling has risen from 33% in 2010 to 48% in 2011 as new outlets have developed and established outlets have grown.

CRUK director Laurance Bird said: “It’s testament to the on-going commitment and consistent efforts of all throughout the supply chain to make carpet recycling and diversion of this bulky waste from landfill a positive reality.”

According to Bird, recycling capacity has increased in response to the growth in specialist facilities able to handle carpets in reuse, recycling and energy recovery processes.

“It is encouraging to see the growth in the use of carpet fibres for equestrian surfaces and felts. There are now 32 specialist outlets contributing to these total diversion routes,” he said.

CRUK’s own members are working towards a collective waste carpet target of 25% landfill diversion by 2015.

Maxine Perella

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