EMR unveils second fridge plant

EMR has officially opened its new fridge recycling plant at EMR Darlaston in the UK, complete with robotic separation systems.

The multi-million-pound facility, located on the outskirts of Walsall, replaces a nearby EMR plant and will double the site’s capacity. Alongside EMR’s Willesden fridge recycling facility in north London, Darlaston will provide fridge recycling services throughout the UK.  

As the number of fridges that use banned CFCs as a coolant continues to decline, the new facility will only recycle fridges containing pentane. Advanced robotic separation processes will identify those containing CFCs, which will then be processed in London.

‘Beyond industry standards’

Ceo Chris Sheppard said the state-of-the-art plant enabled EMR to recycle more fridges than ever before. ‘We strive to operate above and beyond industry standards and this new recycling plant ensures we can continue to do just that. It’s a critical piece of infrastructure that will provide much-needed recycling capabilities for producer compliance schemes, local authorities and manufacturers in the UK, whilst ensuring more precious materials enter back into the circular economy.

‘This facility is a symbol of innovation, our commitment to the environment, and a brighter, greener future.’

Crucial role to play

The facility was opened by Chris Preston, a senior official of the government’s Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, who said: ‘Recycling facilities like this have an essential part to play as the government moves ahead with its proposals for reforming the waste electricals regulations.’