Biffa experts imagine circular future for UK cities
Leading sustainable waste management company Biffa launches Smart Cities thought leadership report
Imagining the possible is an essential part of Biffa’s approach to innovation. Our Biffa experts in civil engineering, development, polymers, packaging, innovation, and sustainability, and regulation worked together “what does a Smart City of the future look like?”
“Biffa has been managing waste for over 100 years and during that time we’ve seen dramatic changes. Over the last two decades, our industry has transformed from simply disposing of waste to supporting sustainable waste management. Biffa itself has changed from a simple waste collections company to an organisation that is enabling the circular economy through redistribution, reuse, and recycling. So, when we approach a topic like ‘what is possible’, we know the potential for rapid growth and development. This is only set to continue as new legislation, technology, consumer demand and environmental factors drive further change. That’s why we need to explore the possible, while making the possible practical.
During this time, Biffa has evolved from a business that managed the disposal of waste, to a waste management company who works to reduce waste. This principle is at the heart of Smart Cities of the future. The use of technology, data and legislation to shape the material flow in and around our cities, and to measure, report and improve our circular systems. Most of all, using everything at our disposal to engage and empower people and businesses with accessible information to guide their choices and inspire communal progress.
While building new cities from scratch in the UK is not realistic, transforming existing cities into Smart Cities is achievable. The objective is to protect resources, reduce waste and ensure materials are flowing in localised loops of reuse, remanufacturing, refurbishment and redistribution. A city wouldn’t be planned without sewage, fresh water, and energy infrastructure. Resources and waste management and material flow needs to be embedded in planning consideration and processes to ensure a solution is progressive and scalable.”
>>WATCH THE VIDEO
Biffa was selected to feature in The Future of Engineering – a new multimedia initiative in association with the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE). As one of the sector’s leading voices in sustainable waste management, Biffa shared insights and expertise in one of the initiative’s documentaries, entitled Putting the Smart into Cities.
The documentary explores the ideas, innovations and individuals at the forefront of the development of sustainable, smart cities across the globe, including commentary and analysis from a host of leading industry organisations. Putting the Smart into Cities addresses the present and future challenges of urban living, from transport and communications to the built environment, work and leisure.
