Cranfield University is the UK’s leading postgraduate university for aerospace engineering, transport and automotive postgraduates. Based in Bedfordshire, it is the only university in the UK and Europe with its own semi-operational airport and aircraft, which is used for aerospace teaching and research.

Working together for over 20 years, Cawleys take sole responsibility for managing all the waste produced across the campus, which ranges from general everyday items to specialist and complex hazardous waste.

A tailored solution 

As a large facility producing a diverse variety of waste across multiple locations, we have a team based permanently at the campus to ensure continuity and consistency. For every type of waste, we provide a tailored solution including scheduled collections, provision of appropriate bins and storage facilities and advice and guidance as required.

The on-site team includes two waste operatives and a supervisor who plan and implement a regular collection schedule with waste delivered to the designated on-site compound prior to collection.  

As a high proportion of the waste generated is classed as hazardous waste our specialist team regularly visit to advise on the more unusual waste generated from the science departments and identify appropriate collection, packaging and routes for safe disposal in line with industry regulations. This includes:

• Laboratory waste – From radioactive to explosive chemical waste.

• Infectious waste – Such as samples used for medical research.

• Waste Electronic and Electrical Equipment (WEEE) – From fridges to telephones and computer monitors to lighting tubes.

• Special projects – These one-off projects have included the disposal of three 60,000-litre storage tanks to the removal of mercury-arc valves that were in place before the room was built!

• Building materials – Such as asbestos and plasterboard.

The storage, collection and disposal of this hazardous waste must be in line with the relevant regulations and our fully trained drivers use ADR-compliant vehicles to collect and transport the waste.

“Our specialist team have been involved from the very beginning and have an in depth understanding of what the university needs and the most effective solutions. We will always find a solution for even the most complex waste, and we are proud of the fantastic working relationship we have developed with the University.”

Ann-Louise Doidge

Hazardous Services Business Manager, Cawleys

Not just waste management!

The fantastic working relationship we have developed over the years has led to an involvement in educational programmes, with our team regularly giving practical talks for students, providing an insight into the waste management industry and the latest developments. We also hold a seat on the quarterly Waste Steering Group – working with senior academics on their courses and ongoing improvement in waste management processes.

“Cawleys have been providing waste management services to the University for over 20 years and they provide us with a fantastic, tailored solution to meet our unique requirements. The team are always friendly, helpful, and willing to go the extra mile. At times the waste generated by the different departments can be challenging and complex, but the team will always work hard to find an appropriate solution.”

Ginny Ford

Environment Advisor, Cranfield University 

If you would like to find out more about our specialist hazardous wastes services or how we can help you with your waste, get in touch with our specialist team.