Binn Buzz Summer 23

BinnBuzz

In this edition...

New £50m contract to turn waste into energy

Driving forward inclusivity credentials

Spring brings major new clients to Binn Group

I’m excited to announce that in partnership with Paprec, Binn Group have been awarded a £50m contract from Perth and Kinross Council to turn waste that cannot be recycled into energy. From 2026 our new Energy from Waste facility will divert approximately 400,000 tonnes of waste from landfill, reduce carbon emissions, secure local jobs, and bring wider economic and community benefits to the area. Well done to the team who have worked hard to secure this contract. Read more on pages 4 and 5.

from the Chief Executive

Also in this issue I’m proud to introduce two inspiring members of the Binn team who don’t let having learning disabilities and difficulties stop them living life to the full. Scott and Christopher have been working with us for several years now, helping keep our skips looking in tip-top condition, and bringing a great deal of positivity to our workforce. We are fully committed to making Binn Group an inclusive and accessible place to work, which is why we have signed up to the government’s Disability Confident scheme - read more about our progress to date and future plans on pages 6 and 7.

I’m pleased to welcome three major new customers to Binn Group - John Clark Motor Group, Balhousie Care Group and the National Trust for Scotland - who were all impressed with our commitment to continually improving not only our own environmental performance, but also that of our customers. Read more on pages 8 and 9.

In other news I’m delighted to share an interview with local lad Rory Stewart on pages 10 and 11 as he continues to make a name for himself as one of Scotland’s most promising young squash players. Binn Group are proud to sponsor Rory and we wish him well with his ambition to break into the top 20 of the Squash World Rankings - go on Rory!

I hope you enjoy reading the latest news and updates from us here at Binn Group, and would like to wish you all a relaxing summer.

Allan MacGregor CEO Binn Group

New £50m contract awarded to turn waste into energy

Perth & Kinross Council has awarded a significant 10-year contract worth £50 million to treat residual waste and turn it into energy.

The Council has appointed Paprec Energies Binn Ltd and from August, both will work in partnership to manage the waste through a thermal treatment, energy recovery and recycling solution.

Currently, around 40,000 tonnes of non-recyclable waste collected in Perth and Kinross each year is sent to landfill. This material will be banned from landfill as new Scottish landfill regulations come

into force at the end of 2025.

Councillor Richard Watters, Convener for the Climate Change & Sustainability Committee said: “Through this contract the Council has sought to find a sustainable alternative for our residual waste and one which will also meet the Scottish Governments ban on landfilling biodegradable municipal waste. When planning the new contract, we were very aware of the carbon impact from waste management and therefore it was important to secure a solution that could reduce carbon emissions in line with our Climate Change Strategy.”

Councillor Andrew Parrott, Convener for the Environment, Infrastructure & Economic Development Committee added: “This energy from waste solution offers a safer and less environmentally damaging way of treating unavoidable nonrecyclable waste that previously went to landfill. Still, we recognise that avoiding waste in the first place must be the main priority and encourage residents to continue to reduce, reuse and recycle as much as possible.”

A new Energy from Waste facility is being developed at the Binn Eco Park in Glenfarg, realising a major investment

Councillors and staff from Paprec, Binn Group and Perth and Kinross Council attended the signing ceremony at the Binn Eco Park at Glenfarg

of over £90 million. The facility will be operational by 2026. Once operational the facility will generate energy (heat and electric power). The facility will add capacity to the existing private renewable energy grid at the Binn Eco Park and has the potential to power an extended private renewable energy grid into Perth. The heat from the facility will supply heat using processes at the Eco Park including advanced horticultural systems.

Councillor Grant Laing, Leader of Perth & Kinross Council said: “We are pleased that by securing this contract Paprec Binn will now proceed with their Energy from

“This will secure local jobs and provides further economic and community benefits including the creation of a generous Community Benefit Fund. We look forward to developing a close working relationship with Paprec Binn to realise the future ambitions for the Binn Eco Park.”

Sébastien Petithuguenin, CEO of Paprec said: “Scotland has always been at the forefront of environmental thinking and Perth & Kinross Council’s ambition to transition waste from landfill into the circular economy is a clear

way to answer to the challenges of this century. Paprec are proud to work in partnership with Binn Group in delivery of this ambition and our common values of commitment and long term thinking will help us realise this vision. We will be with you all the way, thank you for your trust.’

Allan MacGregor, CEO of Binn Group said:”I am delighted Perth & Kinross Council have seen the strength of our proposition which will see the construction of the new energy recovery facility at Binn Farm and release the many benefits this exciting project can deliver for the local economy and the Binn Eco Park’.

Waste development at the Binn Eco Park.

Driving forward inclusivity credentials

Binn Group is driving forward its latest plans as a champion of inclusivity and accessibility.

The company has already pioneered ground-breaking mental health and well-being initiatives for its 140-strong workforce.

Now Team members are committed to the government’s Disability Confident scheme to formalise the work they have also been doing to support those with disabilities and learning difficulties.

Binn Group has attained Disability Confident Level 1 (Committed) accreditation and Chief Executive Allan MacGregor

said they would work diligently through Levels 2 (Employer) and 3 (Leader) to ensure those with any form of disability or learning difficulties would be afforded every opportunity to fulfil their aspirations and maximise their talents.

“Disability is no barrier to being able to find a suitable role within the workforce where people’s talents can contribute enormously to a company’s success,” he said. “At Binn Group we believe in making sure we provide a safe, welcoming and accessible working environment to provide opportunities for all.”

Binn Group’s “open door for all” policy was cemented in 2021

when they directly employed two people with learning difficulties and disabilities through the Perth and Kinross Employability Network.

Although the company already provide additional facilities including accessible toilets, prescription safety goggles and access ramps, Group Health and Safety Advisor Keith Jackson explained additional risk assessments were carried out at their extensive Ecopark site to ensure the team members safety. The Employment support team are instrumental in the additional risk assessments and work closely with Binn Group and the team members.

“We understand how making small adjustments can have a big impact on individual team members,” said Keith. “Our two workers through the Employability Network, Scott and Christopher, have provided a great contribution to the company and thoroughly enjoy being an integral part of our large team here. Their work provides them with routine and a sense of community and they’ve settled in well and have easily integrated within the team.”

Councillor Andrew Parrott, Convener of Perth & Kinross Council’s Environment, Infrastructure and Economic Development Committee said: “Binn Group is a fantastic example of how effectively employers can work with employability agencies to recruit people with barriers including disabilities to find long

term employment.”

Councillor Peter Barrett, Perth & Kinross Council’s Equalities Lead added: “We’re pleased to support their inclusive approach to having a diverse workforce enabling individuals to live fulfilling and rewarding lives and to gain jobs where they feel they are valued team members in the organisation.”

Binn Group are also champions of mental health in the workplace, introducing a new employee assistance programme which provides mental health services that all team members can access free-of-charge – including counselling, CBT and psychiatry, as well as financial and legal assistance.

The company are also expanding the number of Mental Health

fitness champions within the organisation who offer an on-site first point of contact for anyone that is struggling with anxiety, depression or any other mental health issues.

“We’re delighted to have signed up to this government initiative,” said Allan MacGregor.

“We want to be the best we can be as regards accessibility and inclusivity and we plan to progress our certification to the next level through further improvements such as making our recruitment process more accessible.

“Making Binn Group a business that is accessible to all is an important part of our ethos and we will continue to adapt and evolve as an employer who sees the potential in everyone.”

Scott Philips and Christopher Simpson who joined the workforce through the Perth and Kinross Employability Network pictured with company Health and Safety Advisor Keith Jackson

Spring brings major new clients to Binn Group

Binn Group has scored a hattrick by welcoming three major new customers.

The group has recently been awarded contracts to provide comprehensive waste management and recycling services to John Clark Motor Group, Balhousie Care Group, and the National Trust for Scotland.

At John Clark Motor Group - a family run and owned automotive business representing cars, vans and motorbikes from well known brands across Scotland - the Binn team also carried out site audits at all 39 locations to ascertain that optimum levels of service provision were in place, as well as ensuring the company was meeting all its environmental

and statutory compliance requirements.

Hugh Duffy, Group Purchasing and Facilities Manager at John Clark Motor Group said: “We’ve set ourselves the ambitious target of reaching net zero by 2030, 15 years earlier than the Scottish Government’s target of 2045. Binn Group has given us the confidence that their sustainable collection and treatment of our waste and recycling - including our hazardous waste - will help us reach this goal.

“In addition, their comprehensive review of our environmental and statutory compliance has been priceless, giving us peace of mind and allowing us to focus on the day-to-day running of the business.”

As well as Binn Group’s complete waste and recycling service offering, Balhousie Care Group was impressed by Binn Group’s ability to tailor waste and recycling collections to meet the specific needs of each care home. With 25 homes, nearly 1,000 residents and 1,500 staff, Balhousie Care Group is Scotland’s leading independent provider of care for older people, as well as young adults with a diagnosed learning disability.

Robert Coombs, Head of Property Services said: “At Balhousie our driving philosophy is personalisation of care. From care plans to activities to menus, our culture supports and appreciates the individual needs of every single resident. It is essential this approach is

Binn Group carried out environmental and statutory compliance audits at all 39 John Clark Motor Group locations across Scotland

reflected throughout the entire business, therefore we were delighted that Binn Group could offer such a personalised and responsive service to our 26 care homes across Scotland.”

As the country’s largest membership organisation, the National Trust for Scotland’s purpose is to protect, care for, share and speak up for Scotland’s magnificent heritage. It cares for ancient houses, battlefields, castles, mills, gardens, coastlines, islands, mountain ranges and all the communities, plants and animals which depend upon them. Binn Group has been tasked with managing all waste and recycling arisings from the trust’s 88 magnificent properties across Scotland.

Jim Brown, Commercial Director at Binn Group said: “We’re delighted to have recently completed on-boarding for these three new clients. Although each have their own unique requirements, and multiple locations across the length and breadth of Scotland, Binn Group has demonstrated we can successfully provide sustainable waste management for these organisations.”

Binn Group is offering a tailored waste and recycling service to all 26 Balhousie Care Group homes across Scotland

The National Trust for Scotland is the country’s largest membership organisation

‘Unsquashable’ Rory

Binn Group is proud to sponsor local lad Rory Stewart as he continues to make a name for himself as one of Scotland’s most promising young squash players.

Now ranked 55 in the world, 26-year-old Rory from Muthill in Perthshire began playing squash at a young age. He first competed for Scotland aged just 15 and turned pro at 21.

Aged 18 he moved to Edinburgh to be closer to Scotland’s National Sports Performance Centre based at Heriot-Watt University to make use of their world class facilities and have better access to coaching. This allowed Rory to achieve success at a European scale by being accepted onto the Men’s European Championships Team – a big achievement for a junior.

Binn Group’s Commercial Director Jim Brown has enjoyed keeping a close eye on the young player’s career since the company began sponsoring him. Jim said: “It’s been really heartening to watch Rory progress over the years and develop into the professional athlete he is today. I’m proud that Binn Group’s support has enabled him to take advantage of many exciting opportunities, including competing overseas.”

Named Scottish Squash’s Senior Player of the Year 2021/22, Rory’s career continues to go from strength to strength. When he’s not taking part in rigorous twice-daily training sessions, Rory can be found playing for teams in various leagues across the UK and Europe. We caught up with Rory during a break in his busy schedule to find out how he’s getting on and his ambitions for the future...

Taking the shot!

Rory and partner Greg Lobban winning bronze in the Squash Mens Doubles at the 2022 Commonwealth Games

Jim Brown presenting Rory with Binn Group’s latest sponsorship cheque

Tell us about your career highlights

Without a doubt the pinnacle of my career so far was being selected for the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham where I picked up a bronze medal. Other highlights over the last 12 months have included winning silver at the World Doubles in Glasgow and being nominated for Team of the Year at the Scottish Sports Awards. I also came third in the European Championships and achieved my highest world ranking to date.

Not a bad 12 months! What are your ambitions for 2023?

My number one goal is to win the national championships - last year I came second, so the goal is to win! Unfortunately due to touring commitments I will not be able to take part in the competition this year. I’ve also got my eye on breaking into the top 20 of the Squash World Rankings.

What has Binn Group’s sponsorship meant to you?

Without a doubt Binn Group’s support has propelled me up the rankings. Prior to receiving sponsorship I was only able to compete in UK or European tournaments which meant playing against the same people each week and not being challenged as much as I could have been. Binn Group’s support has allowed me to travel further afield, including to South America where I won my first ever professional tournament.

Finally, do you have any advice for young people who want to pursue professional sports as a career?

Enjoy it! Because when you are having fun it doesn’t feel like work. When COVID struck I couldn’t play for six months; when I was able to start playing again I made sure to enjoy it as much as I could - don’t see it as a competition, see it as a game.

Winning the St Louis Open in 2022

One of our long serving drivers Allan Duff is handed the keys to his brand new truck from Head of Transport Angus Nelson

Congratulations to Site Manager Fiona Labrum who recently celebrated twenty years service

Congratulations to Trade Waste Administrator and her husband Martin on their new addition family - baby Kayleigh Catherine McDade

Members of Binn Group including Sarah McCann took part in the “Carry the Gene’ fundraising

Staff news and updates

Administrator Chevonne addition to the

McCann - HR Coordinator, her son Cillian; Irvine Morrison - Transport Director; and Eilis Stevenson fundraising cycle to raise money for people affected with the rare condition Bardet Biedl Syndrome

Head of Environment Audrey Duckworth was featured in a video to celebrate International Women’s Day on 8th March

Customer Focus: McLaughlin & Harvey

McLaughlin & Harvey is a family run building and civil engineering business that has been operating for over 169 years across the UK and Ireland. They deliver quality construction, civil engineering and fit-out projects, as well as providing facilities management services, across multiple industry sectors.

The company has worked closely with Binn Group for a number of

years across several construction projects - sustainable waste management is a key priority for the business as they strive to achieve Net Zero emissions by 2030. Other innovative measures implemented include installing EV charge points at their offices, using biofuels on projects, and trialling solar/hybrid generators.

Lewis Wilson, Operations Manager with McLaughlin &

Harvey said: “Binn Group provides us with a dedicated Account Manager who ensures any orders and queries are dealt with efficiently. We receive detailed monthly reports which give us confidence that they are leading the way in ensuring our waste is being diverted from landfill; this has resulted in our waste diversion targets not only being met, but in most cases, exceeded on the projects they support.”

One of McLaughlin & Harvey’s projects