Tubex has reached a significant milestone in recycling more than 1.1 million tree shelters over the past three years, through its Collection & Recycling Programme, which provides a circular solution for recycling used tree shelters across the UK.
With a current network of 24 recycling hubs nationwide, Tubex has collaborated with its distributors and various forestry organisations to create accessible and convenient free drop-off points for legacy tree shelters.
The continued expansion of this hub network, along with Tubex’s doorstep collection service – available for £39 per dumpy bag – has resulted in the shelter manufacturer facilitating the recycling of 1,421 sacks this year alone, doubling its results from 2023.
The hub network, launched at the close of the 2022-23 season, has significantly expanded the reach of Tubex's recycling efforts, making it easier for planting projects of all sizes to participate – especially for those where pick-up was not economically or logistically viable.
Partners such as Yorkshire Dales Millenium Trust and Forest Working Plastics Group have been involved since the start of the network, with the Programme now expanded to partner with Tilhill, Maydencroft, British Hardwood Tree Nursery, Ashlea Landscaping and Green-Tech among others.
“Recycling old shelters into new ones is the most sustainable form of tree protection long-term, as shown by independent life cycle analysis,” said Peter Stevens, Business Development Manager at Tubex.
At its headquarters in Aberdare, Tubex has processed and pelletised approximately 36,000 kg of recycled shelter material this year, which is now being used to create new shelters.
"This year’s recycling achievements have been made possible thanks to the dedication and support of our partners, who have generously provided their time and resources.
“Thank you to all the landowners and farmers who have shown their commitment to protecting the environment by responsibly recycling their shelters. Over 1.1 million old tree shelters have been collected and removed from the environment, that otherwise would not have been.”
Chris Beer, Tree Planting and Aftercare Manager at Maydencroft said, “Maydencroft has been proud to partner with Tubex as a hub for end-of-life tree guards.
“We have had a busy summer collecting almost 40 bulk bags, and even had the opportunity to aid a community group in tidying a local woodland. We hope this partnership continues for many years to come.”
Peter Stevens continued: “We received such an overwhelming turnout, which exceeded our expectations and even challenged our capacity - which is fantastic news, and we are already working to ensure we can accommodate everyone next year.
“While there is still much work to do to ensure all tree protection is disposed of responsibly and integrated into tree planting project planning, we are so pleased to see the tangible positive impact that this level of ‘buy-in’ and collective responsibility from a wide range of organisations has enabled. This mindset change clearly shows that we are heading in the right direction.”
Tubex has stressed its commitment to continuing to expand its recycling Programme ahead of the next recycling season, with growing interest from additional hub partners in the pipeline.
