Our Queen will celebrate her Platinum Jubilee this week and more than 10 million people across the UK are expected to celebrate over the 4-day bank holiday weekend. Are you planning a Platinum party? From sunny street gatherings to late-night pub openings, many of us will be joining in on the fun. But it’s important to be mindful of the environment and keep celebrations sustainable as we mark the special occasion.

Here are some handy tips for doing just that…

Tip #1: Choose eco-friendly tableware and decorations

The sun is out and it’s the perfect opportunity to spend time with friends and family over good food and drink. However, even if all the food is eaten, putting on a great spread can result in a whole lot of waste.
The culprit? More often than not… tableware! Wooden cutlery, cardboard plates and paper napkins will likely all end up in the bin just a few hours after being unwrapped. So instead, opt for reusable alternatives wherever possible to cut down on waste that will eventually end up in landfill.

Thought about decorations yet?
You’ll have likely spotted an abundance of red, white and blue décor in the shops (how much union jack bunting have you spied?!). And whilst it certainly helps set the scene, much of this is plastic with a single-use lifespan. Why not pick designs that can be used for other events too? More generic colourful banners and balloons will still bring plenty of life to your event but can be rolled out again for many parties to come.

Even better, you could try your hand at making your own decorations. Find fabric in charity shops and make your own bunting, or get little ones involved in an arts and crafts afternoon!

Tip #2: Keep things local

Another great way to reduce environmental impact is to celebrate locally. The UK will be filled with neighbourhood parties and back garden celebrations, so there should be no shortage of invites near home!
A few eco-friendly benefits of staying local are:
·       You can support local businesses by shopping with them for food and decorations
·       Pollution is reduced when you choose a party location that guests can walk to
·       If you forget something, you can pop back home rather than buying something new

Tip #3: As always… reduce, reuse, recycle

Here are some ways to reduce waste this weekend:
·  As mentioned above, reuse decorations at the next celebration
·  Send everyone home with food leftovers – make sure no one leaves empty handed!
·  Wherever you are, designate separate bins for waste and recycling

If you still have rubbish to get rid of, we can help. Our recycling services include:
• Dry mixed wheeled containers
• Glass recycling containers
• Skips available in 5 different sizes

We’re committed to reducing the impact that waste has on our environment, and divert 98% of waste away from landfill at our Materials Recovery Facility.
Contact us today to find out more about any of our services.

14 items that ignite when incorrectly binned

Did you know that more than 300 fires happen at waste and recycling plants every year in the UK – often caused by items being disposed of incorrectly? Items such as aerosols and batteries are commonly sent to our Materials Recovery Facility in Slyfield, but these can ignite and put our staff and site at risk.

You can help minimise the risk to human life, business and the environment by making 100% sure that no potentially hazardous items go into our bins, REL containers or sacks.

But this begs the question:
What items are considered potentially hazardous?
We know the rules around waste disposal can be a little confusing so here’s a quick list to remind you.

What materials pose a threat to our facility?

The following types of waste cannot go in any of our bins, REL containers or sacks:

· Hazardous wastes or liquids

· Batteries

· Fuels and oils

· Chemicals

· Electrical equipment

· Paint, resins, thinners or adhesives

· Raw meat or fish

· Asbestos

· Toners

· Explosives

· Gas bottles or canisters

· Radioactive materials

· Nappies

· Animal faeces or cat litter

·  Nappies

·  Animal faeces or cat litter

What makes them hazardous?

Everything on the list above is deemed hazardous by the Environment Agency and must not be disposed of in the same way as general or recycling waste.

If they are, it’s likely that they’ll be handled in ways we would never knowingly treat such items.

They may be compacted, punctured, become wet or get overheated, putting them at risk of igniting.

For example, aerosols contain pressurised liquid or gas that could explode when heated or compacted. Even empty cans must never be punctured as chemical residue could still be inside.

So how should you dispose of hazardous waste?

If you’re dealing with any of the materials mentioned, we can still help!

We provide a collection, treatment, and disposal service either directly or through specialist sub-contractors to ensure your waste is dealt with safely and that you meet all relevant legislation in the process.

If you’re unsure whether your materials are deemed hazardous or would like advice on how to dispose of your waste, please call us on 01483 504595. A member of our team will be happy to advise.

How to avoid an Easter packaging pile-up

The Easter weekend brings countless chocolate eggs, family get-togethers, and a couple of extra days off work. But it also means households create more waste through seasonal packaging, or feel tempted to tackle overdue home improvements – and rubbish can quickly pile up.

Here are some ideas you might find handy this Easter holiday…

Consider booking a skip

With spring in the air and time on your hands, you may find yourself reaching for the gardening gloves – or even (finally!) clearing out the shed.
And take our word for it: there’s nothing worse than using up all your energy getting that done, only to find yourself with another big job just to deal with the waste afterwards.

With 5 sizes available, our skips provide the ideal solution for your soil, gravel, unwanted household items and whatever else you’re disposing of.
Our friendly team offer speedy skip delivery and prompt collection, plus we recover 98% of the materials from a typical domestic skip so you can rest assured you’re choosing a sustainable option.

Get a quote today

Refresh your memory on recycling rules

Our top 3 Easter tips:
1) Packaging from Easter eggs is generally 100% recyclable and can go straight in your recycling bin.
2) Hot cross bun bags remain unrecyclable. So pop them in your general waste bin instead to avoid contaminating recyclables.
3) Don’t forget to collapse all your recycling before disposing of it to free up space in your container.

Wondering how we can help your business over Easter as well as your household?

Whilst our Guildford and Runfold facilities are closed on Good Friday, Easter Sunday and Easter Monday, we remain open on Saturday (7am to 12.30pm) and will continue to provide our regular services for trade customers and construction companies as well as householders.

Here’s a reminder of our services:

Trade waste and recycling
Enjoy your well-deserved break and let us collect and responsibly dispose of your business waste and recycling.
Our range of containers and services include:
• Simple bag collection
• Small-wheeled containers
• REL (rear end loaders) containers

Construction
Bank holidays needn’t mean you lose valuable time. Leave the coordination of your construction waste management to us so you can fully switch off from work.
As well as providing top-of-the-range building materials, you can also count on us to recycle up to 98% of your construction waste.
If you’re about to start a new project, don’t forget our portable toilet hire service is available with speedy delivery. Why not get everything in place before the long weekend?
Find out more

Grab hire
Dealing with even more amounts of inert waste materials than usual? Our grab hire service could be the cost and time-saving solution.
Simply leave your waste in a pile, and our grab lorry drivers will collect it at a time that suits you.
Find out more

Aggregates
Need to stock up on supplies to keep you covered? Our soil washing plant — one of only a handful in the country — recycles over 180,000 tonnes of inert waste every year to offer high quality washed and recycled aggregates.
Our range includes sands, ballast, and capping materials, so you can rely on us for all your aggregate needs.
Find out more

“I have been a customer of Chambers for 3 years and cannot fault them. They’ve never let me down and are always friendly and very professional. They have taken the headache out of my waste problems, so I thank them and highly recommend them!”
The Happy Hedgehog Rescue

Contact us today to find out more about any of our services.

COP26 and What It Means for UK Businesses

The UK Government made multiple pledges at COP26. Whether these are fulfilled or not, the good news is clear: businesses across the UK are committed to reducing carbon emissions and reaching their low-carbon targets.

Business and Industry Minister Lee Rowley said:

“The UK is leading the way in showing how going green doesn’t just make sense for the planet – it makes business sense too.”

With listed companies legally required to publish net zero plans by next year, there has never been a better time to get ahead of competitors and impress customers with your sustainable actions.

What COP26 Means for UK Businesses

The UK government now requests that most large companies release detailed public plans outlining how they will meet climate change targets set at COP26.

More than half of FTSE100 companies have committed to eliminating their contribution to climate change by 2050. This effort aims to keep global temperatures within 1.5°C of pre-industrial levels.

Although COP26 focused on larger companies, this will affect suppliers and smaller business partners. Consumers are increasingly choosing companies that can demonstrate sustainable practices.

Net Zero Plans Can Help Your Business Grow

SMEs account for almost 50% of UK business emissions, but they face unique challenges in reducing carbon output. Around 35% of small businesses report that costs limit their ability to cut emissions.

The good news? Reducing emissions may have upfront costs, but it often saves money over time and future-proofs your business.

Taking action against climate change can:

• Reduce utility and travel costs

• Save on wasted materials

• Create new jobs

• Attract investment

• Maintain a local competitive advantage

Initiatives to Get Started

Race to Zero: The government encourages businesses to join the UN Race to Zero. Nearly 3,000 UK businesses have signed up, more than half of the global total. Participants outline how they will reduce emissions and achieve net zero.

Together for Our Planet: Launched by the Prime Minister, this initiative helps small businesses cut emissions by 50% by 2030 and reach net zero by 2050 (or sooner). Businesses also gain access to resources, advice, and opportunities for growth via the UK Business Climate Hub.

How to Begin Your Net Zero Journey

Every business can take steps to reduce emissions, including:

• Installing energy-saving light bulbs

• Switching to electric vehicles

• Using eco-friendly packaging

• Working with sustainable suppliers

• Insulating buildings

• Monitoring energy and water usage

• Installing renewable electricity or heating

• Partnering with a reputable waste management company

COP26 pledges may seem overwhelming, but working towards net zero offers tangible benefits for both the planet and your business.

Every UK business has a role to play. What does yours look like?

Chambers Supports Lucy Johnston Fundraising for SDR Surgery

Chambers is proud to support the Lucy Johnston fundraising campaign. The family is raising money for life-changing SDR surgery, which could give Lucy the chance to walk.

Lucy was born with spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy and uses a wheelchair. Her twin brother has already benefited from the surgery. The procedure costs over £50,000, and the family is working hard to secure the funds.

Lucy is full of joy. Her laugh is infectious, and she brightens the day of everyone she meets. Chambers contributed £5,000 to help Lucy access this vital treatment. Every donation brings her closer to walking and living life to the fullest.

The Tree of Hope

The fundraising campaign runs in partnership with Tree of Hope, a UK charity supporting children and young people with disabilities or illnesses. The charity helps families raise money for specialist care not available through the NHS.

Tree of Hope guides families through every step of fundraising. They help maximise donations, provide advice, and ensure that every effort counts. The charity enables children to access treatments and therapies that improve their health, wellbeing, and quality of life.

By supporting Lucy Johnston fundraising, Chambers is helping provide her with a real chance to walk and enjoy life to the fullest. The campaign shows how community support and expert guidance can make a huge difference.

To make a direct donation to Lucy’s appeal click here

For more details on how you can support Tree of Hope please visit: Tree of Hope

From skip and grab hire to trade and waste recycling, we offer a truckload of services that can save you time and help you reach targets.

Take a quick look at the list below and get in touch to tell us what you need.

Trade waste and recycling

Whatever the size of your business, we’ll collect and responsibly dispose of your waste and recycling, so you can focus on the project at hand.
Our range of containers and services include:
• Simple bag collection
• Small-wheeled containers
• REL (rear end loaders) containers

Construction

As well as providing a wide range of high-quality building materials, you can also save valuable time by leaving the coordination of your construction waste management to us.
You can count on us to recycle up to 98% of your construction waste.
We’re dedicated to saving you time and helping you achieve your waste and recycling targets, so don’t forget to take advantage of our free waste audit.
Aggregates
Need to stock up on supplies? Top-of-the-range washed and recycled aggregates are just a stone’s throw away at our soil washing and recycling facility in Runfold.
Our full range includes:
• Washed recycled sands
• Washed recycled aggregates and ballast
• Soils/sub base/capping materials
• Primary aggregates

Ready-mixed concrete

We can deliver ready-mixed concrete directly to your site.
Our volumetric mixers store raw materials separately and mix them on-site, allowing you to:
• Order the exact type of concrete you require
• Estimate the amount you’ll need
• Only pay for what you use

Grab hire

Dealing with huge amounts of inert or waste materials? Our grab hire service could be the cost-saving solution.
Grab lorries load directly from the ground so you can simply leave your waste in a pile, and we’ll collect it at a time that suits you.

RORO and Skip Hire

The new year can bring renovations, home clear outs, and new construction projects. Whether it’s for domestic or commercial use, we’ve got a budget-friendly solution that’s perfect for the job.
Ideal for large amounts of waste, RORO (roll-on-roll-off) containers can be hired as and when you need them, supplied on demand, or permanently left on-site.
As with many of our services, prices are based on the amount of waste we collect.
If you require something smaller, we have 5 skip sizes available for hire:
• 4 cubic yard
• 6 cubic yard
• 8 cubic yard
• 10 cubic yard
• 12 cubic yard

Up to 98% of the materials recovered from a domestic skip are recycled at our recovery facility in Slyfield, making it the most sustainable way of removing waste.

Portable toilet hire

Managing a busy construction site?
Complete with hand basins, toilet paper and soap, you can rely on us to deliver space-saving toilet facilities with speedy delivery.

“Many thanks for all your help. It’s so nice to have a company that just gets things sorted.”
– Charlotte Hargreaves, Porsche Centre Guildford

Contact us today to find out more about any of our services.

Check out our Christmas opening hours for Guildford, Aldershot and Runfold sites. We would like to thank you for your continued custom and support during 2021 and wish all our customers a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Kickstart your career with Chambers and become a qualified HGV driver. The Chambers Group are offering fully funded courses to achieve HGV Category C licence.  If successful in your application you will be employed in another role within the Company whilst you achieve a full licence.

Training includes:
– LGV Medical and provisional application
– Theory test preparation
– Classroom based training
– HGV driver training

All you need is a clean car driving license. Interested? To be considered please email lynn.theobald@chambers-group.co.uk. with your location and a copy of your latest CV.

Check out our website for a full list of vacancies currently available:

We are delighted to once again sponsor the Greatest Hits Radio Mission Christmas appeal. This is our 5th year sponsoring the event and one that we are always happy to support.

Greatest Hits Radio supports the Cash for Kids charity who’s mission it is to improve the lives of disadvantaged children and young people across the UK who are affected by poverty, illness, neglect or have additional needs.

The Mission Christmas appeal

Here’s how you can help:

Buy an extra gift for Mission Christmas if you can, and Cash for Kids will make sure that it gets to a disadvantaged child so they’ll wake up to something under the tree on Christmas morning. All gifts should be new and unwrapped, and you can take them to drop-off points across the UK. Find your nearest drop-off location here.You can also give gifts online, donate cash online, by text or register your support and fundraise!

Gift voucher applications are now open for organisations supporting families.

Thank you for helping the children that need it most this Christmas.

Recycling Efforts in the UK: How Businesses, Schools, and Households Are Doing More

Climate change is a hot topic, and it’s encouraging to see how many people are committed to “going green.” One of the easiest ways to make a difference is through recycling. Recycling reduces CO2 emissions, saves energy, and helps prevent deforestation. By integrating recycling into daily life, everyone can lower their environmental impact.

According to the Bureau of International Recycling, global recycling can prevent over 700 million tonnes of CO2 emissions each year—the same as the aviation industry produces in that timeframe. This shows how collective action, even at a small scale, can make a big difference.

How Individuals and Organisations Are Stepping Up

Initiatives like Global Recycling Day and movements such as Extinction Rebellion raise awareness about climate change and encourage people to act. In the UK, 93% of citizens now believe everyone has a responsibility to protect the environment.

Retailers are helping by using recycled materials in products. This prevents the depletion of natural resources and reduces emissions from production. Producing items from recycled plastic reduces energy use and emissions by over 50%. For paper and aluminium, this rises to 75–80%. In-store recycling points and zero-waste supermarkets also make it easier for consumers to shop sustainably.

Schools and Workplaces Are Leading by Example

Many schools and offices now use visual prompts and dedicate lessons or meetings to recycling awareness. Research shows that when one person adopts sustainable practices, others follow. This social influence helps build habits and encourages consistent recycling at work and school.

Recycling at Home

A recent WRAP report shows that over half of UK households recycled more last year than ever before. Despite this progress, we still produce 26 million tonnes of waste annually. Of this, 14 million tonnes end up in landfill, and only 12 million tonnes are recycled—an average recycling rate of 45%.

Incorrect disposal often leads to recyclables being sent to landfill. To improve recycling rates, check local guidance and ensure items are clean and correctly sorted. Small actions, like separating materials properly, can prevent whole containers from being rejected.

Why Recycling Matters

While cars and planes contribute heavily to climate change, recycling remains vital. Around 80% of the items we throw away could be recycled instead. Every effort counts. By improving knowledge, raising awareness, and taking action, we can reduce landfill waste and protect the planet.

The fight against climate change requires everyone to participate. Businesses, schools, and households can all contribute. Together, our recycling efforts in the UK can make a real difference.

So, are you ready to up your recycling game?