Babcock is demonstrating its commitment to a greener future through initiatives that align with South Africa’s environmental objectives, while also operating within Babcock International’s goal of environmental sustainability. 
Babcock committed to a greener future
Dedicated waste transfer facility at Bartlett
According to the Department of Environmental Affairs, the average South African produces a staggering one tonne of waste per year. Up to 65% of waste in the country is recyclable, yet only 10% is being recycled annually. Landfills across South Africa are reaching capacity, particularly in metropolitan areas. As Mpendulo Ginindza, President of the Institute of Waste Management of South Africa, says, “This situation requires everyone’s involvement – from households to business.”
Babcock already recycles waste but has recently taken it a step further by creating a centralised waste transfer facility at its Bartlett site for all recyclable waste.
“We seek out opportunities where we can make a difference within our working environment to be more eco-friendly, and reduce our carbon footprint,” says SHE Manager at Babcock's equipment business, DJ Marais.
An under-utilised space covering an area of 46 m2 within the warehouse yard was repurposed into a secure waste transfer facility where the waste will be sorted according to different categories before it is collected by a permitted waste management service provider. This includes oil cans and containers, different types of plastics, packaging for parts, and recyclable office and warehouse waste.
“We have gone to great lengths to find a suitable permitted waste management service provider that operates beyond compliancy and is fully committed to the ‘Zero Waste to Landfill’ goal, while also having the resources to responsibly manage recyclable hazardous waste such as industrial oil,” says Marais.
What makes this facility unique is that it was built almost entirely with recycled materials. “Even the locks are repurposed wheel spanners!” says Marais. Another unique aspect of the facility is that Babcock is encouraging its employees to bring their personal industrial waste to this facility instead of disposing of it with general waste.
The facility is expected to be fully operational by the last quarter of 2024.
