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The Pig’s Head – Zero Waste Initiative with Oklin GG10s

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 10:24:31 GMT

South London Pub's – Zero Waste Initiative with Oklin GG10s

Customer:

The Pig’s Head

Industry:

Hospitality – Sustainability-Driven Pub

Challenge

The Pig’s Head, a sustainability-driven pub in South London , sought to further its eco-friendly initiatives by reducing food waste and implementing a closed-loop waste system . Their commitment to sustainability extends beyond the kitchen, as they also needed a solution for paper menus, bathroom hand towels, and compostable kitchen waste, such as compostable cling film and sous vide bags.

Aiming to become zero waste , the pub required a comprehensive composting system that would support their sustainability goals while engaging their customers in the process.

Solution

The Pig’s Head installed an Oklin GG10s food waste composting machine, allowing them to compost food waste from the restaurant, alongside paper-based and compostable materials . The pub takes pride in its eco-credentials and actively educates customers through informational displays about the composting machine within the restaurant and bathrooms.

To further enhance their sustainability efforts, they transport the majority of their compost to Kent via an electric vehicle , where they maintain a ‘no-dig’ farm supplying much of their fresh herbs and vegetables. To encourage customer engagement, any excess compost is bagged into 1kg portions and displayed outside the pub for patrons to take home for their gardens.

Benefits

On-site waste reduction

The Oklin GG10s enables the pub to process food waste, paper menus, bathroom towels, and compostable kitchen waste efficiently.

Carbon footprint improvements

The use of an electric vehicle for transporting compost and the integration of a no-dig farm contributes to a more sustainable food system.

Customer engagement

Providing free compost to customers encourages participation in sustainability efforts and reinforces the pub’s commitment to eco-friendly practices.

Zero waste certification

Thanks to the composter’s contribution, The Pig’s Head was officially certified Carbon Neutral by Positive Planet on April 21, 2023.

Implementation Process

Background:

With a strong mission to achieve zero waste, The Pig’s Head required a reliable, compact, and efficient composting solution that would integrate seamlessly into their operations while maintaining their sustainability commitments.

Site Survey & Installation:

The Oklin GG10s composting machine was installed in the pub’s waste management area, ensuring ease of use for staff and seamless waste processing. The team developed a structured composting strategy, aligning with their farm-to-table approach and further reducing the pub’s environmental impact.

Outcome

Significant waste diversion from landfill

Ensuring a closed-loop waste management system.

Reduction in overall waste removal costs

Making sustainability more financially viable.

Community involvement

Through education and compost distribution, strengthening customer relationships and brand reputation.

Recognition as a leader

In eco-conscious hospitality, achieving Carbon Neutral certification.

This case study highlights how The Pig’s Head successfully leveraged Oklin’s composting technology to achieve their zero-waste goal while engaging their community and enhancing their sustainability credentials.

Government Facility Reducing Carbon Footprint with Oklin GG100s Food Waste Solution

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 14:55:09 GMT

Government Facility Reducing Carbon Footprint with Oklin GG100s

Customer:

Contract Foodservice Company

Industry:

Government

Challenge

A large government facility serving up to 7,000 people generates significant food waste across its restaurant outlets and retail locations. Traditional waste disposal methods relied on bin lorry collections, contributing to environmental impact and inefficiency. Additionally, many UK councils lack facilities to compost food waste and compostable packaging, leading to methane-producing landfill waste.

Solution

To address these challenges, the facility installed the Oklin GG100s food waste composting machine alongside an SM3 Shredder for compostable packaging waste . This system enables on-site processing of food waste, creating a closed-loop waste management system that significantly reduces reliance on external waste collection and landfill disposal.

Benefits

Up to 90 %

Food Waste Reduction

The Oklin GG100s composting machine processes 300kg of food waste per day , and reduces its volume by up to 90% .

Reduced

Carbon footprint

On-site composting eliminates the need for frequent bin lorry collections , reducing the facility’s carbon footprint.

Reduced

packaging Waste

The SM3 Shredder ensures compostable packaging is reduced in volume before being added to the machine for efficient composting.

Sustainable

Food production

The compost produced is used on-site, supporting sustainable landscaping and a vegetable allotment for the catering facility.

Implementation Process

Background:

A contract catering company managing the facility sought to meet ambitious environmental targets, including achieving Net Zero by 2050 . As part of this initiative, they launched a Climate Net Zero Toolkit to drive sustainable practices across all sites.

Site Survey & Installation:

The facility’s size provided multiple location options for installation. The final placement was in an underground loading bay near the main restaurant, ensuring efficient integration into existing waste management operations. The machine was lifted into place via crane from a flatbed lorry, and its ventilation system was seamlessly connected to the bay’s pre-existing exhaust infrastructure.

Outcome

6,000kg*

Food Waste Processed

Within two months of installation , the facility processed over 6,000kg of food waste , producing 800kg of nutrient-rich compost.

86.7%

Food Waste Reduction

This represents an 86.7% reduction in waste volume.

Self-sufficient

food production cycle

The compost directly benefits the facility’s grounds, enhancing sustainability efforts and contributing to a self-sufficient food production cycle.

Lower

Environmental Impact

The site is operating a closed loop food waste management system and reducing their environmental impact by reducing bin lorry collections.

This case study highlights the successful implementation of Oklin’s composting technology in a large-scale government facility, showcasing its impact in reducing waste, lowering emissions, and supporting a circular economy approach to food waste management.

The Business Case for Sustainable Waste Management: How Composting Can Benefit Your Company

Sat, 28 Sep 2024 14:40:37 GMT

The Business Case for Sustainable Waste Management:

How Composting Can Benefit Your Company

In today's increasingly environmentally conscious world, businesses are under growing pressure to adopt sustainable practices. One area where companies can make a significant impact is waste management. Composting, in particular, offers a range of environmental and financial benefits that can make it a compelling choice for businesses of all sizes.

Environmental Benefits

Reduced landfill waste:

Composting diverts organic waste from landfills, reducing the strain on limited landfill space and helping to conserve natural resources.

Greenhouse gas emissions reduction:

Landfills are a major source of methane, a potent greenhouse gas. By composting organic waste, businesses can help to reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to mitigating climate change.

Water pollution prevention:

Leachate, a contaminated liquid that can seep from landfills, can pollute groundwater and surface water. Composting helps to prevent the formation of leachate, protecting local water resources.

Financial Benefits

Cost savings on waste disposal:

By composting organic waste, businesses can reduce their waste disposal costs, saving money on landfill fees and transportation.

Improved employee morale:

Studies have shown that employees are more likely to be satisfied and engaged when their company is committed to sustainability. Composting programs can help to create a positive work environment and boost employee morale.

Enhanced brand reputation:

Consumers are increasingly concerned about environmental issues and are more likely to support businesses that are committed to sustainability. By implementing a composting programme, businesses can improve their brand reputation and attract environmentally conscious customers.

Case Studies

Many businesses have successfully implemented composting programmes with the help of Oklin machines. For example, we worked with a contract catering company with a vision to reduce the carbon footprint of large government facility by installing an in-vessel composting machine. As a company, they had recently set significant environmental targets to be Net Zero by 2030 and launched a Climate Net Zero Toolkit to be implemented across all sites. We helped them with this with our machine installation, you can find out more here:

Practical Tips for Starting or Improving Your Composting Initiative

1. Assess your waste stream:

Identify the types of organic waste your business generates.

2. Choose the right composting system:

Select a composting system that is suitable for your business size and waste stream. Oklin offers a range of machines to meet the needs of businesses of all sizes.

3. Provide employee training:

Educate your employees about the benefits of composting and how to properly use the composting system.

5. Monitor and optimise:

Regularly monitor the performance of your composting programme and make adjustments as needed to improve efficiency and effectiveness.

Transform Your Business: Boost Sustainability with Oklin Composting Solutions!

By implementing a sustainable waste management program that includes composting, businesses can improve their environmental performance, reduce costs, and enhance their brand reputation. Oklin UK machines provide a reliable and efficient solution for businesses looking to incorporate composting into their operations.

Contact our team to learn more!

Reducing Waste in Healthcare Facilities: The Role of Composting

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 12:33:43 GMT

Reducing Waste in Healthcare Facilities:

The Role of Composting

Healthcare facilities generate significant amounts of waste, including medical waste, packaging materials, and food scraps. This waste often ends up in landfills, contributing to environmental pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. One effective way to reduce waste in healthcare facilities is through composting.

Composting is a natural process that decomposes organic materials into nutrient-rich compost, which can be used to improve soil health and reduce the need for synthetic fertilisers. In healthcare facilities, composting can be used to divert food waste, paper products, and other organic materials from landfills through the use of an industrial composter, like an Oklin machine.

The Benefits of Composting in Healthcare Facilities:

Reduced landfill waste:

Composting can significantly reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills, helping to conserve resources and protect the environment.

Reduced Costs:

Composting can reduce waste disposal costs and generate revenue through the sale of compost.

Positive public image:

By implementing composting programs, healthcare facilities can demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Challenges and Considerations:

Contamination:

Healthcare facilities must be careful to avoid contaminating compost with hazardous materials, such as medical waste or chemicals.

Picking the right machine:

Ensuring research is done in advance to pick the correct machine for the organisations needs.

Training and education:

Staff members should be trained on proper composting techniques to ensure the success of the program.

Implementing a Composting Program:

To implement a successful composting programme in a healthcare facility, consider the following steps:

1. Conduct a waste audit:

Assess the types and amount of waste generated by the facility.

2. Select a composting method:

Choose a composting machine that is suitable for the facility's size, resources, and waste stream.

3. Provide training and education:

Educate staff members on proper composting techniques and safety procedures.

4. Implement a collection system:

Set up a system for collecting organic waste and transporting it to the composting area.

5. Monitor and maintain the compost:

Regularly monitor the composting process and make adjustments as needed

How Oklin UK Can Help.

By implementing a composting programme, healthcare facilities can significantly reduce their environmental impact and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Contact our team to learn more!

Composting in Schools and Universities: A Sustainable Solution with Oklin UK

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 12:13:29 GMT

Composting in Schools and Universities:

A Sustainable Solution with Oklin UK

Educating the Next Generation of Environmental Stewards

Schools and universities play a crucial role in shaping the minds of future generations. By incorporating sustainable practices into their daily operations, these institutions can instil a sense of environmental responsibility in their students. One effective way to promote sustainability is through composting.

The Benefits of Composting in Educational Institutions:

Environmental Education:

Composting provides a hands-on learning experience for students, helping them understand the importance of waste reduction and recycling.

Reduced Waste:

Composting can significantly reduce the amount of organic waste sent to landfills, helping to conserve resources and protect the environment.

Improved Soil Health:

Compost can be used to enhance soil quality, improve plant growth, and reduce the need for chemical fertilisers on school grounds.

Reduced Costs:

Composting can reduce waste disposal costs and generate revenue through the sale of compost.

Community Engagement:

Composting programmes can foster a sense of community and involvement among students, staff, and the local community.

Oklin UK: A Leader in Industrial Composting Solutions

Oklin UK offers a range of industrial composters that are ideal for schools and universities. Our machines are designed to handle large volumes of organic waste efficiently and effectively, producing high-quality compost that can be used to fertilise school gardens or sold to the local community.

Case Study

In 2019 King Fahd University invested in an Oklin GG100s food waste composter to compost food waste generated from one of their cafeterias.

The composter reduced waste volume by 80-90%, and trained staff members then empty the compost from the machine, and the groundskeeping team collects the compost to use on school grounds.

How Oklin UK Can Help Your School or University

If you're interested in implementing a composting programme at your school or university, Oklin UK can provide the necessary equipment and expertise. Our team of experts can help you assess your waste stream, select the right composter for your needs, and provide ongoing support and maintenance.

By choosing Oklin UK, you're investing in a sustainable future for your institution and helping to educate the next generation of environmental stewards... Contact Oklin to learn more!

Oklin Composters: The Sustainable Solution Boosting Your Business' ESG Efforts

Thu, 27 Jun 2024 10:52:13 GMT

Oklin Composters:

The Sustainable Solution Boosting Your Business' ESG Efforts

Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors are increasingly important for businesses today. Consumers are looking to support companies that prioritise sustainability, and investors are taking ESG performance into account. Here's where Oklin composters come in – they're not just great for the environment, but also a powerful tool to elevate your company's ESG profile.

Composting: A Key Piece of the Sustainability Puzzle

Reducing waste is a cornerstone of any strong ESG plan. Landfills are overflowing, and organic waste decomposing anaerobically releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas. Composting offers a solution. It diverts food scraps from landfills, reduces methane emissions, and creates nutrient-rich fertiliser, closing the loop on the food cycle.

Oklin: The Efficient and Convenient Composting Advantage

Oklin composters are specifically designed for businesses. Unlike traditional composting methods, Oklin's technology breaks down organic waste quickly and efficiently, handling large volumes in a compact unit. They're odor-free and produce no messy greywater, making them ideal for indoor use in restaurants, office breakrooms, or food service facilities.

ESG Benefits Beyond Waste Reduction

Oklin composters go beyond just reducing waste. They can help your business achieve its ESG goals in several ways:

Reduced Environmental Impact:

By diverting organic waste from landfills and cutting methane emissions, Oklin helps businesses demonstrate a commitment to environmental responsibility.

Positive Brand Image:

Consumers are drawn to companies that prioritise sustainability. Owning an Oklin composter showcases your dedication to eco-friendly practices, enhancing your brand image.

Employee Engagement:

Promoting composting within your company fosters a culture of environmental awareness and can boost employee morale.

Taking Action for a Sustainable Future

Investing in an Oklin composter is a clear demonstration of your commitment to environmental stewardship. It's a win-win – you reduce waste disposal costs, create valuable fertiliser, and improve your ESG performance.

Start your journey towards a more sustainable business today. Contact Oklin to learn more!

Ditch Plastic, Embrace Compost: Sustainable Swaps for Plastic Free July and Beyond

Sat, 15 Jun 2024 10:41:40 GMT

Ditch Plastic, Embrace Compost:

Sustainable Swaps for Plastic Free July and Beyond

Plastic Free July is a global movement encouraging people to rethink their reliance on single-use plastics. But going plastic-free doesn't have to mean sacrificing convenience. There are fantastic compostable alternatives that work just as well, and the good news is, they can often be composted right at home with your Oklin composter!

Conquer Convenience:

Baby Wipes: Ditch the plastic wipes and say hello to plant-based, compostable wipes made from bamboo or other sustainable materials. These gentle wipes are just as effective but won't clog your drains or pollute landfills.
Carrier Bags and Plastic Bags: Say goodbye to flimsy plastic bags! Opt for compostable or reusable bags for groceries and shopping. These are durable, easy to clean, and some can even be composted at the end of their life!

Goodbye Germs, Hello Green:

Sanitary Items: Traditionally, feminine hygiene products are loaded with plastic. Thankfully, there are now fantastic compostable options available. Look for pads and tampons made from organic cotton with biodegradable wrappers.

Dining Sustainably:

Cutlery and Containers: Ditch the disposable plastic forks, knives, and plates! Opt for reusable bamboo, stainless steel, or even compostable cutlery made from corn starch.

The Magic of Oklin Composters:

The beauty of these swaps is that many of these alternatives can be composted in your Oklin composter! Oklin's innovative technology utilises a unique microbial process to break down organic waste, including these compostable materials, in just 24 hours. This rapid composting process transforms your food scraps, yard trimmings, and even those sustainable swaps into nutrient-rich fertilizer for your garden.

Oklin: Solutions for Homes and Businesses:

Oklin offers a range of composter sizes to suit your needs. The compact GG02 is perfect for home use, handling up to 4.5kg of food waste per day. For larger households or businesses, Oklin provides a variety of models with capacities reaching up to 1500kg daily.

Beyond Efficiency:

Oklin composters are designed with convenience in mind. They are odourless and feature built-in deodorisers, making them ideal for indoor use. Additionally, Oklin's technology eliminates the production of greywater, a byproduct of traditional composting methods.

Small Steps, Big Impact:

Plastic Free July is a great starting point, but these sustainable swaps can easily become everyday habits. By making these small changes and utilizing an Oklin composter , you're reducing your plastic footprint, creating nutrient-rich fertiliser, and contributing to a healthier planet, one compostable item at a time!

UK Food Waste Regulations: All You Need to Know

Tue, 21 May 2024 08:27:57 GMT

Oklin's 24-Hour Composting Revolution

All You Need to Know

Feeling overwhelmed by the new food waste regulations for businesses in the UK? Don't worry, Oklin UK is here to help! The upcoming Food Waste Regulations in the UK will require businesses to implement a separate food waste collection. While this is a positive step for sustainability, we understand it might disrupt existing waste processes.

Here are some initial challenges businesses might face:

Increased Sorting: Integrating separate food waste bins will require training staff on proper sorting procedures.
Collection Logistics: Arranging separate food waste collection may require additional pickups and potentially a new supplier.
Upfront Costs: Purchasing new bins and potentially changing collection services could incur initial expenses.
Time Constraints: Busy hospitality staff might need to adapt their routines to accommodate additional sorting tasks.

Making the Transition Smooth

Despite these initial hurdles, there are ways to make the change smoother:

Investing in Staff Training: Clear training on food waste separation can increase efficiency and reduce contamination.
Exploring Waste Management Solutions: Companies like Oklin UK offer innovative solutions like compact food waste processors that minimise waste volume and simplify disposal.
Long-Term Cost Savings: Separate food waste collection can lead to reduced overall waste disposal costs in the long run.

Food Waste Regulations: What You Need to Know

The UK government is committed to reducing food waste, and these new regulations are a significant step forward. Businesses that generate large quantities of food waste are now responsible for its proper disposal, ensuring it doesn't end up in landfills, contributing to harmful methane emissions. While separate collection ensures proper recycling, it also translates to additional costs for businesses.

The Challenge and the Opportunity

For restaurants, cafes, and other food businesses, managing food waste can be a headache – not only financially, but also logistically. Traditional composting methods often require significant space, attract unwanted pests, and take weeks to decompose waste.

Oklin's 24-Hour Composting Revolution

Oklin's innovative 24-hour composters offer a game-changer for businesses facing these challenges. Here's what makes them perfect for tackling food waste woes:

Rapid Decomposition:

Our innovative technology breaks down food waste into nutrient-rich compost in just 24 hours, significantly reducing the volume and eliminating the need for large-scale composting systems.

Reduced Costs:

By minimizing food waste volume, Oklin composters help businesses save money on separate collection fees. Additionally, the resulting high-quality compost can be used for on-site gardening or donated, further reducing waste disposal costs.

Odor-Free and Pest-Proof:

Gone are the days of smelly and messy compost bins. Oklin's closed-loop system eliminates unpleasant odours and attracts zero pests, creating a clean and hygienic environment.

Simple to Use:

User-friendly design makes Oklin composters perfect for businesses of all sizes. Intuitive operation minimizes training needs and ensures efficient waste management.

Embrace Sustainability and Save Money with Oklin

Oklin UK empowers businesses to become more sustainable while reducing waste disposal costs. Our 24-hour composters offer a win-win scenario for businesses and the environment. Contact us today and discover how Oklin can help your business thrive sustainably.

Greywater Regulations and Composting: What You Need to Know

Sat, 18 May 2024 08:10:15 GMT

Greywater Regulations and Composting:

What You Need to Know

Here at Oklin UK, we're passionate about sustainable living, and that focuses responsible composting. Recently, there have been lots of talks around some changes in regulations regarding greywater use in composting within the UK. Let's break down what this means for you need to know and how Oklin's innovative no greywater composters can help.

What Changed Has Changed?

Previously, there were no specific regulations around using greywater in composting systems. However, recent updates from governing bodies advise against using greywater due to potential concerns and the presence of harmful chemicals that could impact compost quality and plant health.

Why Is This Important?

While greywater might seem like a readily available resource, it can introduce unwanted elements into your compost. Deters like soap scum, cleaning products, and even food scraps containing grease can negatively impact the composting process. Additionally, some medications and personal care products can be harmful to plants and potentially contaminate the final compost.

So What Can You Do?

Don't worry, composting doesn't have to be a grey area. Oklin's range of no greywater composters provides a simple and effective solution. These innovative systems are designed to optimise the composting process using only brown and green materials, ensuring high-quality, healthy compost for the ground.

Oklin composters offer several advantages:

Simple Separation Design:

Our user-friendly systems make composting accessible to everyone.

Efficient Process:

The design promotes optimal airflow and moisture balance, leading to faster decomposition.

Quality Construction:

Made from high-quality, materials, Oklin composters are built to last.

Sustainable Focus:

No greywater use means a truly environmentally friendly composting composting experience.

Embrace Sustainable Composting with Oklin

We believe in making sustainable living easy and accessible.

Our no greywater composters are the perfect solution for those who want to enjoy the benefits of composting without the confusion or potential risks associated with greywater use. Explore our range of composters and find the perfect fit for your needs.

Closing the Loop: How Industrial Composting Can Enhance Your Sustainability Efforts (and ESG Plans)

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 11:28:32 GMT

Closing the Loop: How Industrial Composting Can Enhance Your Sustainability Efforts (and ESG Plans)

In today's environmentally conscious world, businesses are increasingly prioritising sustainability efforts. One powerful yet often overlooked solution is large scale composting. This blog will explore how industrial composting can not only divert waste from landfills but also significantly enhance your company's Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) plans.

Landfill Blues: The Environmental Impact

Landfills are overflowing, and traditional waste management contributes heavily to greenhouse gas emissions. Organic waste, when sent to landfills, decomposes anaerobically (without oxygen) releasing methane, a potent greenhouse gas 25 times more impactful than CO2. Industrial composting facilities, on the other hand, create an aerobic environment that breaks down organic materials efficiently, drastically reducing methane emissions.

Beyond Green: The Social and Governance Benefits

Industrial composting offers a win-win for businesses beyond just the environmental impact. Here's how it strengthens your ESG efforts:

Social Responsibility: By diverting waste and promoting a circular economy, your company demonstrates a commitment to social responsibility. This resonates with environmentally conscious consumers and strengthens your brand image.
Improved Governance: Effective waste management demonstrates strong governance practices. Companies that embrace industrial composting showcase a proactive approach to environmental regulations and resource management.

ESG in Action: How Industrial Composting Contributes

Industrial composting directly contributes to several key ESG metrics:

Reduced Waste to Landfill: This demonstrates a commitment to resource efficiency and responsible waste management.
Lower Greenhouse Gas Emissions: By diverting organic waste from landfills, your company minimises its carbon footprint.
Improved Soil Health: Compost is a valuable soil amendment, promoting healthy ecosystems and potentially supporting local agricultural initiatives.

Partnering for a Sustainable Future

Industrial composting facilities offer businesses a powerful tool to elevate their sustainability efforts. By partnering with a reputable composting company, you can:

Reduce reliance on landfills.
Lower your environmental impact.
Strengthen your ESG profile.

Embrace composting and join the movement towards a more sustainable future.

It's a win for the environment, your brand image, and ultimately, the well-being of our planet. Get in touch to see how our Oklin composters could play a part in your ESG plans in 2024.

Rubbish or Treasure? Unveiling the World of Compostable Packaging

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 10:30:28 GMT

Rubbish or Treasure? Unveiling the World of Compostable Packaging

We all know the guilt of throwing out that perfectly good box or those packing peanuts. But what if there was a way to turn your packaging into nutrient-rich soil? Enter the world of compostable packaging!

Compostable packaging is made from organic materials like plant starches, wood pulp, and even mushrooms. These materials break down quickly in a compost pile, leaving behind no harmful residue. This is a far cry from traditional plastics, which can take hundreds of years to decompose and pollute our environment.

So, why is this important? Traditional packaging clogs landfills, harms wildlife, and can leak chemicals into the soil. Compostable packaging, on the other hand, offers a sustainable solution. By turning your packaging into compost, you're closing the loop and creating valuable fertiliser for your garden.

Here's where Oklin Composters come in! Oklin's innovative composters provide the perfect environment for your compostable packaging to decompose efficiently. With proper moisture and aeration (thanks to Oklin's clever designs!), your food scraps, garden waste, and yes, even compostable packaging will transform into nutrient-rich goodness for your plants.

Here are some everyday items you might be surprised to find are compostable:

Cardboard boxes (undyed and free of glossy finishes)
Paper bags and packing peanuts (made from plant-based materials)
Mushroom packaging (yep, those mushroom-based containers!)
Cornstarch-based utensils and cups

But remember, not all packaging with a green label is created equal. Look for certifications like BPI or ASTM to ensure the packaging is truly compostable.

By making conscious choices about the packaging you buy and using Oklin Composters to break it down, you can turn your rubbish into treasure for your garden and contribute to a more sustainable future. So, the next time you receive a package, check if it's compostable and embrace the power of turning waste into something wonderful!

Brewing Sustainability: How Composting Benefits Breweries

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 09:57:12 GMT

Brewing Sustainability:

How Composting Benefits Breweries

The craft beer industry thrives on innovation and passion, crafting unique flavour profiles that delight beer lovers worldwide. However, beneath the frothy head and hoppy aromas lies a hidden environmental impact: spent grain, the leftover malt responsible for a substantial portion of brewery waste. Traditionally, this nutrient-rich material ends up in landfills, contributing to methane emissions and occupying valuable space.

Fortunately, large scale composting offers a transformative solution, allowing breweries to embrace sustainability while enhancing their operations. This responsible practice unlocks a cascade of benefits, not only for the environment but also for breweries themselves.

Rethinking waste...

Industrial composting reimagines spent grain as a valuable resource, not a waste product. This product undergoes a natural decomposition process, transforming into a nutrient-rich amendment ideal for agriculture and landscaping.

The benefits of industrial composting extend far beyond spent grain. Breweries can also divert other organic materials, such as:

Hops: Repurposed as mulch or even biofuel, maximising resource utilisation and minimising reliance on fossil fuels.
Yeast: Used in animal feed or bioplastics, demonstrating innovation and responsible waste management.
Food scraps: From kitchens and brewpubs, creating a comprehensive waste reduction program that minimises landfill contributions.

The Ripple Effect of Responsible Brewing...

By embracing industrial composting, breweries contribute to a positive environmental ripple effect:

Reduced greenhouse gas emissions:

Diverting organic waste from landfills.

Improved soil health:

Nutrient-rich compost fosters healthy soil, promoting biodiversity and water retention.

Resource conservation:

Composting reduces reliance on synthetic fertilisers and minimizes landfill usage, conserving valuable resources for future generations.

Enhanced brand image:

Consumers increasingly value sustainability, and breweries demonstrating environmental responsibility cultivate strong brand loyalty and positive public perception.

Taking the First Step Towards a Sustainable Future:

Industrial composting empowers breweries to not only brew exceptional beer but also brew a better future. By adopting this responsible practice, breweries can contribute to a more sustainable world, enhance their brand image, and cultivate a community of environmentally conscious consumers who truly appreciate the story behind every sip.

We have a range of composters that are perfect for breweries of all sizes. Check out the range on our website and see how composting can fit in to your businesses sustainability strategy.

The Power of In-Vessel Composting for Agriculture: Growing a Sustainable Future

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 09:39:04 GMT

The Power of In-Vessel Composting for Agriculture:
Growing a Sustainable Future

As the world's population grows, so does the demand for food. However, traditional agricultural practices often come at a cost to the environment. This is where large scale composting steps in, offering a powerful solution to create healthy soil, reduce waste, and promote sustainable farming practices.

Large scale composting diverts organic waste streams, such as food scraps from sectors, such as hospitality, from landfills and transforms them into nutrient-rich compost. This compost, unlike synthetic fertilisers, is teeming with beneficial microbes that improve soil health, fertility, and water retention. This translates to:

Reduced reliance on chemical fertilisers:

Large scale, in-vessel composting provides a natural source of nutrients for plants, minimising the need for potentially harmful chemicals.

Improved soil structure:

Compost helps bind soil particles together, enhancing its structure and promoting better drainage and aeration, crucial for healthy root development.

Increased crop yields:

Studies have shown that crops grown in compost-amended soil often experience increased yields and improved quality.

Reduced greenhouse gas emissions:

Diverting organic waste from landfills, where it decomposes and releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas, plays a significant role in mitigating climate change.

Beyond environmental benefits...

In-vessel composting also offers economic advantages for farmers and the businesses that produce the waste. By utilising readily available compost instead of purchasing expensive synthetic fertilisers, farmers can:

Reduce their overall production costs.
Improve the long-term sustainability of their operations.
Contribute to a circular economy, where waste is transformed into valuable resources.

The power of industrial composting extends beyond individual farms...

Right down to the businesses that create the product in the first place. Large-scale composting facilities by some of the biggest producers of waste can efficiently manage organic waste. Our largest Oklin GG500s composter can process 500 tonnes of food waste per year (1350-1500kg per day) creating a win-win situation for both the environment and agriculture, saving companies money on waste disposal and contributing to their ESG strategies.

As we work towards a more sustainable future, in-vessel composting for businesses presents a powerful tool for fostering healthy soil, reducing waste, and promoting responsible food production.

Five Ways On-Site Composting Can Help Your Business Go Green

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 09:35:35 GMT

Five Ways On-Site Composting Can Help Your Business Go Green

Going green isn't just a trendy slogan anymore – it's a vital business strategy for a sustainable future. Environmental, social and governance (ESG) plans are a staple to any business plan for financial and regulatory reasons. But for busy companies, implementing eco-friendly solutions often feels like adding another item to an already overflowing to-do list.

Enter the hero of convenience and environmental progress: on-site composting. This innovative system transforms your food waste into nutrient-rich soil amendment, all within the confines of your own property. And the benefits go far beyond just reducing your landfill footprint:

1. Slash Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Traditional waste disposal contributes significantly to methane emissions, a potent greenhouse gas. On-site composting offers an alternative to waste disposal, reducing your carbon footprint and boosting your sustainability credentials.

2. Save Money on Waste Disposal

Hauling food waste to landfills isn't cheap. On-site composting eliminates the need for off-site disposal, which can result in significant cost savings over time. Imagine that extra green going towards exciting new projects or employee rewards.

3. Close the Loop, Nourish the Soil

Food scraps that used to be waste become valuable resources. The nutrient-rich compost produced by your in-vessel system can be used to revitalise your landscaping, gardens, or even local community projects.

4. Boost Employee Engagement and Morale

Participating in sustainability initiatives creates a sense of pride and shared purpose among your team. Seeing food waste transformed into something valuable can be a real morale booster, fostering a culture of environmental responsibility.

5. Enhance Public Image and Customer Loyalty

In today's environmentally conscious world, consumers are increasingly drawn to businesses that prioritise sustainability. Implementing on-site composting demonstrates commitment to green practices, attracting eco-minded customers and strengthening brand image.

On-site composting isn't just a good idea

– it's a win-win scenario for your business and the planet.

It can save you money, reduce your environmental impact, engage employees, and attract eco-conscious customers, when implemented as an alternative to traditional waste disposal methods.

Here at Oklin UK we have a huge range of composters for every type of business, in every type of industry, from a small office kitchen composter to our biggest composters, capable of dealing with 500 tonnes of waste a year.

Fork to Future: Hospitality Heroes Championing Zero Waste Food

Thu, 18 Jan 2024 12:18:31 GMT

Fork to Future:
Hospitality Heroes Championing Zero Waste Food

In the vibrant world of hospitality, the aroma of delicious food should never be overshadowed by the spectre of wasted resources. Thankfully, a growing chorus of businesses is tuning out the unsustainable food-waste symphony and playing a triumphant zero-waste anthem. Let's raise a glass (made from recycled bottles, of course) to some inspiring initiatives shaking up the industry.

1. Composting for Change:

Toast Ale:

This London brewery collects leftover bread (enough to fill eight double-decker buses annually!) from local cafes and transforms it into delicious, sustainable beer. Talk about giving waste the golden touch!

Visit Website >>

Winnow:

This tech-powered champion uses smart scales to track food waste in kitchens, saving restaurants an average of 50% on discarded food. Less waste, more profit, and a lighter environmental footprint – a triple win!

Visit Website >>

2. Sharing is Caring:

Karma:

This app connects restaurants with customers looking for last-minute deals on surplus food. It's a win-win, reducing waste and offering delicious discounts. Remember, leftovers are just ingredients waiting to be reinvented!

One Planet Restaurants:

One Planet Restaurants, Global: This initiative promotes restaurants and hotels committed to sourcing sustainably, reducing food waste, and supporting local communities. From farm to fork, they're fostering a responsible dining ecosystem.

Visit Website >>

3. Upcycling the Unexpected:

Too Good To Go:

This app partners with businesses to sell unsold food at the end of the day at discounted prices. Think fresh bread, pastries, and salads – a feast for the senses and a benefit for wallets and the planet.

Visit Website >>

Saving the Planet, One Plate at a Time:

These are just a few examples of the hospitality industry's inspiring shift towards zero-waste food. From clever tech solutions to creative upcycling, the message is clear: delicious food and environmental responsibility can go hand-in-hand. By supporting these pioneers and adopting their best practices, we can all savour the future of a sustainable, waste-free dining experience.

Interested in how you can turn your business in to one of these green super heros? A composting plan for your business is a great place to start – and we can help. Check out of range of composters and give us a call to get started.

Five reasons why you should compost

Fri, 22 Dec 2023 10:34:07 GMT

Five reasons why you should compost

Composting may seem like yet another chore for your business but what if we told you it wasn’t? Composting unlocks a wealth of benefits that extend far beyond our own back gardens.

Did you know only 1% of UK households compost regularly. This means that the vast majority of food and garden waste is being sent to landfill, where it decomposes anaerobically and releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas.

Of the 9.52 million tonnes of food waste generated in the UK each year, 6.4 million tonnes could be composted. This would save 25 million tonnes of CO2e emissions per year!

Here’s our top five reasons why you should consider composting in 2024 and the benefits it could bring you.

1. Environmental Stewardship

Composting stands as a cornerstone of a greener lifestyle. By diverting organic waste from landfills it prevents decomposition turning into methane, a potent greenhouse gas. This simple act can significantly reduce our carbon footprint and contribute to a healthier planet.

2. Soil Enrichment

Compost replenishes the essential nutrients that our soil desperately craves to support vibrant and healthy plant growth. It enhances soil aeration, water retention, and overall structure, creating a fertile environment for things to grow in.

3. Cost-Effective

Commercially produced compost can be an expensive. But by composting you can create your own nutrient-rich compost, reducing reliance on chemical fertilisers, a practice that can harm the environment.

4. Sustainable Pest Control

Healthy soil teems with beneficial microbes that play a crucial role in regulating pest populations naturally. Composting promotes the growth of these beneficial organisms, creating a balanced ecosystem that discourages the need for harmful pesticides. Our own composters are also protected from any rodent infiltration that can happen with some composting methods by operating within a sealed tank.

5. Legislation compliance

Businesses have to pay to get rid of food waste and that can be costly. New legalisation in 2024 also means that composters that produce greywater will have much stricter rules around discharging this residue water. Our composters don’t produce any greywater at all so are a great sustainable and compliant option.

Interested in finding out more?

Check out how in-vessel composting could be the solution for you by reading about our composters

Choosing the Right Composter for Your Needs

Fri, 22 Dec 2023 10:14:37 GMT

Choosing the Right Composter for Your Needs

Composting is a fantastic way to reduce our environmental impact, minimise food waste, and create nutrient-rich soil amendments. But what should you consider when buying a commercial composter?

Waste volume:

How much food waste do you generate?

For businesses already in operation, this information should be readily available from your waste management company. If you don’t currently separate your food waste, do a typical 2-4 week trial and weigh all the food waste that is generated.

At some points in the year you may generate more waste than others, a seasonal business like a café on the seafront will produce much more waste in the summer months than the winter months. Consider the maximum amount of waste you may need to compost and plan for a machine that can cope with that amount. Take a look at our website to see which machine would suit your volumes.

Compliance:

Soon it will be illegal to discharge greywater into the drainage system!

Our composters don’t produce any greywater at all, which means they’re compliant with the new incoming legislation.

Space:

How much space do you have for the composter?

Our machines can be located inside or outside and typically take up the same amount of space as your current food waste bins.

Odour control:

Open compost heaps and classic composting bins will still generate a smell! Our composters are built with sealed tanks to minimise odours as much as possible, so consider the impact the machine could have on the space it’ll be situated.

Ease of use:

How easy is it to operate the composter?

Our composters are very intuitive, but not all composters are built that way. Make sure you select a model that everyone will be able to use easily.

Noise level:

Some composters are quieter than others!

Again it’s important to think about where you’ll be placing your machine.

Here’s our run down of a few of our composters

What they’re useful for and how they can fit in to your day to day life.

Oklin GG02 Composter

Small scale
Capacity: 4-5kg per day
Ideal for: Small coffee shops and small offices
Features: Compact design, odourless operation, easy to use

Oklin GG10s Composter

Light commercial
Capacity: 20-25kg per day
Ideal for: Small to medium sized restaurants, larger offices and small-scale hotels
Features: Low power draw, user-friendly, hygiene program

Oklin GG50s Composter

Mid-range capacity
Capacity: 125-150kg per day
Ideal for: Larger restaurants, schools/universities and retail outlets
Features: Steel steps for ease of loading, user-friendly LED screen, hygiene program

Oklin GG500s Composter

Large-scale, industrial composting
Capacity: 1,350-1,500kg per day
Ideal for: Large-scale producers of food waste such as factories, hospitals, military bases and large residential complexes
Features: Bin lifter for loading 120-240L wheelie bins, safety rails and ladders, automatic operation

Here at Oklin UK, we offer a variety of composting machines to suit different needs and spaces, making it easy to find the perfect solution for your home or business. Get in touch if you’d like to find out more about how one of our machines could work in your space.

Composting for Businesses: How to Start Your Own Composting Program

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 14:15:19 GMT

Composting for Businesses: How to Start Your Own Composting Program

Composting is a great way to reduce waste, improve soil health and save money. It's also a great way to show your employees and customers that you're committed to sustainability. If you're thinking about starting a composting program at your business, here are a few tips to get you started.

What is composting?

Composting is the natural process of breaking down organic matter into a nutrient-rich product. This can then be used to improve soil health, promote plant growth and reduce the need for chemical fertilisers.

What are the benefits of composting for businesses?

There are many benefits to composting for businesses, including:

Reduced waste:
Divert organic waste from landfills, where it can decompose and produce methane gas, a potent greenhouse gas.

Reduced costs:
Save money on waste disposal fees.

Increased employee engagement: Engage your employees in sustainability efforts, boosting morale and productivity.

Enhanced brand image:
Composting can show your customers that you're committed to environmental responsibility, which can boost your brand image.

How to start a composting program at your business

Here are a few steps to get you started:

Assess your waste: Take a look at your business's waste stream to identify what organic materials you can compost. This could include prep waste, plate leftovers, organic waste and coffee grounds.
Choose a composting method: There are many different composting methods available, so choose one that's right for your business. Our composters can turn food waste in to compost in as little as 24 hours and reduce the waste volume by up to 90%, making them a great choice for businesses.
Set up your composting system: Once you've chosen a method, you'll need to set up your composting system. This will involve purchasing the right equipment and setting up a monitoring method.
Educate your employees: It's important to educate your employees about composting so that they can participate. This could include providing training on what to compost and how to compost correctly.
Market your program: Let your customers know that you're composting! This could help you attract new customers and boost your brand image.

If you're thinking about starting a composting program at your business and need a little help to get started, please get in touch.

Tackling food waste in a hospitality business

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 17:37:53 GMT

Tackling food waste in a hospitality business

Food waste is a major problem in the hospitality industry, accounting for around 10% of all food waste. This is not only bad for the environment, but it is also bad for businesses, as it costs money to purchase and dispose of food that is not eaten.

So we’ve come up with our top tips to help businesses come up with create a zero food waste initiative as part of their Environmental and Social Governance plans. Utilising one of our onsite composters is just one of the ways that you can help the environment.

Measure and track food waste.

The first step to reducing food waste is to understand how much food is being wasted. This can be done by measuring and tracking food waste over a period of time.

Once you have a good understanding of how much food is being wasted, you can start to identify the areas where food is being wasted. This could be in the kitchen, the dining room, or even at the point of purchase.

Implement strategies to reduce food waste.

When you have identified the areas where food is being wasted, you can implement strategies to reduce it. This could include things like:

Improving forecasting. By forecasting demand more accurately, businesses can reduce the amount of food that is over-ordered.
Portion control. By ensuring that portion sizes are appropriate, businesses can reduce the amount of food that is left on plates.
Donating surplus food. Surplus food that is still safe to eat can be donated to charities such as soup kitchens.
Composting food scraps. This can be done by utilising an Oklin onsite food waste composter of course! Recycle your food waste into a valuable resource that can be used to grow produce or donated to local projects.

How to get your staff involved

It is important to get your staff involved in tackling food waste. They are the ones who are on the front line and who see first-hand where food is being wasted. You can get them involved in several ways including:

Educating them about the importance of reducing food waste. Explain to them the environmental and financial costs of food waste.
Empowering them to make decisions about food waste. Give them the authority to make decisions about how food is disposed of or purchased in the first place.

We have also seen some great success where hospitality businesses change their offering to customers to be more sustainable all year around.

Using fresh, seasonal and local ingredients can reduce the carbon footprint of t he food in the first place encouraging a field to fork style offering.

Flexible menu options which have a focus on portion control or different food options that can be swapped in or out.

Packaging leftover food for guests to take home is a great way to reduce food waste and give guests a value-added service. Who has ever said no to a quality left over food at the end of the night?!