Flooring manufacturer Forbo Flooring Systems has launched ‘Back to the Floor’ – a new collection and recycling scheme for installation off-cuts of Forbo flooring products that will help participants save money and safeguard the environment.

Managed by resource recovery expert Axion Consulting, this innovative scheme collects and reprocesses smooth vinyl, cushioned vinyl, Marmoleum and Flotex installation off-cuts for recycling back into new Forbo products.

Back to the Floor will play a key part in Forbo’s drive to reduce its environmental impact by 25% by the end of 2015 through applying its 4R’s – Reduce, Renewable, Reuse and Recycle.

Flooring contractors, installers and distributors are being invited to call Axion on 0161 355 7618 to register an interest in the scheme, which offers significant cost savings versus sending the waste flooring material to landfill and complies with Site Waste Management legislation.

Registered Back to the Floor participants will be provided with colour-coded polythene bags and bulk bags which can be collected from site, or dropped off at participating distributors, when filled with the specified materials.


With landfill costs averaging £93 per tonne, according to WRAP’s annual gate fees report 2012, it is estimated that potential substantial cost savings can be made by using the scheme as opposed to landfill.

All participants receive a certificate of commitment, demonstrating their environmental credentials that can also help them win new business.

The scheme also enables flooring companies to fulfil rising demand from main contractors for provision of a recycling service as part of their waste management policies. Increasingly, customers are keen to see flooring waste recycled where possible.

Back to the Floor Scheme Manager Jane Gardner, of Axion Consulting, says this standalone system completely ‘closes the recycling loop’ as Forbo’s off-cuts can be recycled at its Ripley and Kirkcaldy plants back into its new flooring products.

"In setting up Back to the Floor, Forbo is demonstrating commitment to producer responsibility in making recycling more widely available to specifiers, customers and ultimately the end users," says Jane.

"Back to the Floor is a welcome addition to existing flooring recycling initiatives in the UK and the flooring sector as a whole," she adds.

Forbo’s General Manager UK and Ireland, Angus Fotheringhame commented: "As a global player in high-quality commercial and residential floor coverings, we take our environmental responsibilities seriously. Back to the Floor is evidence of this commitment to closed loop recycling and ‘creating a better environment’ for future generations."

For more information, call 0161 355 7618 or email.

backtothefloor@axionconsulting.co.uk

www.forbo-flooring.co.uk