WasteSafe operatives showed their star quality when it comes to emergency waste collection as they were called out to clear up after the collapse of film hire company Blockbuster.
Teams collected display cardboard and DVD cases from 10 former Blockbuster outlets across the UK after the once-popular hire company went bust.
In some cases, landlords had removed bags of the material from their premises and dumped it outside, creating what could have become a serious litter problem.
Matthew Bottrell, Northern Operations Manager for WasteSafe, said: “We were called in to attend three premises at first, which then grew to 10, as it became clear that there was a risk that material from the stores would be left in the street.
“We mobilised teams to visit each location, pick up the waste material and make sure it was disposed of responsibly.
“We also carried out litter picks in several areas, as late as 10pm at night, because Blockbuster packaging had been spread about as local people looked through the bags hoping to find a bargain movie to watch.
“Unfortunately, for them, they went away empty-handed, as no DVDs were included in the waste material we had to dispose of.”
During the Blockbuster clear up five van-loads of DVD cases and cardboard were collected and disposed of. Because the cardboard was recyclable, it could be disposed of free of charge, reducing the cost to the client.
Matthew Bottrell said the work showed how WasteSafe was perfectly placed to take on this kind of emergency waste clearance and disposal on a national basis.
He said: “We have depots across the UK, so can mobilise teams at short notice to respond to emergency waste collections associated with companies getting into trading difficulties.
“When companies like Blockbuster have to close we often work closely with official receivers and liquidators who require businesses to be wound up in a controlled way.
“This manages their costs, increases the amount of money left for creditors and ensures they do not face financial penalties from the local council or waste management authorities for contravening waste disposal regulations.”
