The 2014 Ryder Cup in Scotland will be a ‘zero waste to landfill’ event for the first time this year, it has been announced.
Two Scottish companies, Spectrum Service Solution and William Tracey Group, have been appointed to provide cleaning and waste management at the golfing tournament, which is being held at Gleneagles Hotel this September.
The two companies will be responsible for collecting and recycling around 500 tonnes of waste that will be left by up to 45,000 spectators each day. Mixed recyclables will be collected on site; food waste will sent for anaerobic digestion; and any residual waste that cannot be recycled will be turned into refuse-derived fuel (RDF), although the companies were unable to provide an estimate for how much waste will not be recycled when contacted by Resource.
Robin Stevenson, William Tracey Group’s Managing Director Non Hazardous Waste, said: “The Ryder Cup provides a fantastic opportunity to showcase everything that is great about this country and an important part of this is Scotland’s position as a global leader in recycling and sustainable resource management.”
Sara Speirs, Spectrum’s Managing Director, also commented on the contract: “It is a major event in the world’s sporting calendar and it signals the realisation of our aim to become Scotland’s premier event cleaning company. This latest win highlights our versatility and understanding of all the markets we operate in.”
“Significant step towards zero waste events in Scotland”
Iain Gulland, Director of Zero Waste Scotland, supported the announcement, saying: “The events sector is an important focus area for the Scottish Government, given the volumes of waste that can be generated but also because of the opportunity they present to engage and raise awareness amongst so many people.
“We are impressed by the voluntary and proactive approach Ryder Cup Europe have adopted, and pleased to have been able to support in this significant step towards zero waste events in Scotland.”
Read more about the Ryder Cup.
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