Orbit has published its Zero Waste Approach which sets out its priorities to significantly reduce waste and improve the recovery of materials across its operations by 2030.
The Zero Waste Approach outlines how the not-for-profit housing provider will build on the progress already made via its Orbit Earth programme towards achieving a circular economy where resources are sourced, produced, used, and disposed of sustainably, by focusing on:
- Identifying and reducing construction waste
- Providing training and engagement for colleagues
- Collaborating with customers to reduce bulk waste and improve communal environments
- Sustainable procurement practices and supply chain partnerships
- Compliance with upcoming 2025 waste segregation regulations
By focusing on these key areas Orbit aims to achieve the following targets by 2030/31:
- 100% diversion from landfill or incineration for disposal of all waste (excluding hazardous waste).
- 30% reduction of waste produced by direct Grounds Maintenance service
- 5% reduction of waste produced by offices.
- 15% reduction of construction waste produced by direct build operations.
Progress against these targets is monitored by Orbit’s Sustainability Steering Group and published in its annual Sustainability Report. Its latest results show that good progress is already being made with 99.80% of waste being diverted from landfill, a 31% reduction in office waste (exceeding the 5% target) and a 15% reduction in avoidable waste per newly built home in 2024/25.
Afzal Ismail, Chief Regulatory and Governance Officer for Orbit commented: “Reducing waste isn’t just the right thing to do for the environment, it also delivers real operational benefits and better value for money for customers. Through our Zero Waste Approach, we are embedding sustainability into every part of our business, from office operations to construction and community engagement. Interim targets have already been exceeded and while current results are promising, we remain committed to continuously reviewing and improving our strategy to ensure that we deliver the lasting social value that supports our core purpose and 2030 strategy.”
For more information on Orbit’s Zero Waste Approach go to: https://www.orbitgroup.org.uk/media/ucfhirvz/net-zero-waste-strategy-document_may-2025.pdf
