The Southwark Integrated Waste Management Facility was built in 2012 and is a feat of modern design and engineering. Built to deal with over 200,000 tonnes of waste annually, the facility separates the whole of Southwark’s mixed recycling ready to be turned into something new. All black bag waste from the borough is brought to the facility and is turned into a low carbon fuel which provides energy to the National Grid and is responsible for heating five large housing estates.
Residents will be given the chance to go behind the scenes to discover what happens to their waste on Saturday 19 September, from 10am to 4pm and visitors will have the opportunity to:
- Witness the latest technology in action as recyclable materials collected from households and businesses are sorted
- See how black bag waste is treated to create a low carbon fuel ready to supply electricity and heat to the homes of local residents
- Get up close and personal with some big and powerful machines at our vehicle display
- Discover the sustainable features of the facility and learn how we are supporting biodiversity in one of London’s most urban corners
- Learn more about materials and where they come from in our fun and interactive education centre, designed by the people who brought you Launch Pad at the Science Museum.
- Win a trip for two to Paris as part of a competition to raise money for the children’s charity, Evelina
Other entertainment includes a wild bird display, bouncy castle, face painting and children’s games along with refreshments which are provided free of charge.
Saturday 19 September
10am to 4pm
Tours every 15 minutes
Southwark Integrated Waste Management Facility
43 Devon Street, London, SE15 1AL
Fabrice Bouchon, General Manager for Veolia in Southwark said: “We are delighted to open our doors once again this September as part of London Open House weekend. Over 600 people attended the Wonder Day last year and we’d like to see even more residents discovering what happens to their recycling and waste this year.”
Councillor Darren Merrill, Cabinet Member for Recycling and Environment, said “I would highly recommend a visit to the site for a chance to see the technology behind recycling. It’s a quirky day out for the family but also really educational too.”
Facility tours take place every 15 minutes throughout the day on a first come, first served basis. No high heels or open toe shoes can be worn on the tour and all children must be over 7 years old and accompanied by an adult if 16 or under to take part, with no more than two children per adult. Finally, for health and safety reasons we must advise visitors that the tour of the facility incorporates a number of staircases.
