Hanson launches new Recycling Materials Business
In a strategic move aimed at conserving precious natural resources and advancing the principles of the circular economy, Hanson, a renowned leader in the UK construction industry, has recently announced the establishment of an innovative recycling business line. This new venture is poised to revolutionize the way construction and demolition waste is handled, signalling a significant commitment to sustainable practices.
Under the visionary leadership of James Whitelaw, who has transitioned from his role as aggregates managing director, this pioneering recycling business is set to transform the company’s operations. Whitelaw’s appointment as the managing director of the newly created recycling division underscores the company’s dedication to this critical initiative. Importantly, he continues to report directly to the CEO, Simon Willis, ensuring seamless integration within the organization’s existing hierarchy.
Whitelaw’s primary mandate is to explore and capitalize on opportunities for organic growth by leveraging the company’s current capabilities. Additionally, he will spearhead the integration of strategic acquisitions, with a particular focus on Manchester-based A1 Services. This forward-thinking approach aligns perfectly with Hanson’s overarching goal of creating a sustainable and circular supply chain.
As a consequence of Whitelaw’s transition, Brian Charleton, previously the concrete managing director, has taken the reins as the aggregates managing director. This leadership reshuffle positions Charleton to drive excellence in the aggregates division, an essential component of Hanson’s core operations.
Furthermore, in a move that underscores the company’s commitment to enhancing its concrete business, Gordon Napier, previously serving as the concrete regional director, has joined the executive team as the managing director of Hanson’s concrete division. Napier’s extensive industry experience and strategic acumen are expected to play a pivotal role in steering the company’s concrete operations to greater heights.
Hanson’s foray into the recycling sector represents a significant step forward in its mission to promote sustainability and environmental responsibility within the construction industry. By harnessing its extensive expertise and infrastructure, the company aims to recover, process, and repurpose construction and demolition waste, thereby reducing the burden on landfills and conserving valuable resources.
This strategic pivot towards recycling aligns seamlessly with global efforts to minimize waste and mitigate the environmental impact of resource-intensive industries. Hanson’s visionary approach, driven by James Whitelaw and supported by a talented executive team, is poised to set new industry standards and make a tangible contribution to the circular economy.
In an era when sustainability and responsible resource management are paramount, Hanson’s innovative recycling business line represents a beacon of hope for a more environmentally conscious construction industry. With a team of dedicated professionals at the helm and a steadfast commitment to change, the company is poised to make a lasting impact on the world of construction while championing a more sustainable future for all.
“Promoting circularity by recycling, reusing and reducing the use of primary raw materials is crucial to reaching net zero,” said Simon Willis.
“The development of a separate recycling business line will allow us to provide the most sustainable products to our customers through circularity and innovation to enable building more, with less. It is another significant step towards achieving our aim of being the industry leader in the supply of sustainable, circular products.”
