Eliminating single-use packaging waste at Dunfermline Learning Campus
The manufacture and disposal of textiles pose a significant environmental challenge, with only 1% of clothing effectively recycled globally¹. In 2024, we purchased c.64,000 items of hi-vis PPE in the UK, highlighting the importance of tackling this issue at Balfour Beatty.
On the National Highway's A63 Castle Street Scheme in Hull, we trialled a durable, washable PPE range with a complete end-of-life recycling solution. Operatives used two sets of PPE alternately, sending one for laundering as needed. Garments were cleaned, repaired and safety-checked to ensure compliance. Radio frequency identification tags were added to enable precise tracking and to facilitate data collection on carbon emissions and wash cycles. Operatives praised the design and comfort, though lower-than-expected washing requirements limited the trial’s scale. A larger trial is planned to gather more data and refine the approach.
64,000
Items of PPE purchased in 2024
Additionally, Balfour Beatty hosted a sustainable innovation event, bringing together our PPE supply chain partner, tier 2 manufacturers and key internal stakeholders to drive collaboration. Through ‘speed dating’ sessions and roundtable discussions, participants explored ways to enhance PPE sustainability, including consolidating the range, expanding laundry access and improving end-of-life management.
A PPE committee has been established to drive these initiatives forward, ensuring Balfour Beatty continues to lead in sustainable practices while aligning with business-wide sustainability targets.
