Clear communication and deploying younger workers to encourage customers helped a campsite in North Somerset beat its year-on-year recycling performance during the busiest month of 2024.
Petruth Paddocks in Cheddar saw the ratio of recyclable to non-recyclable waste rise by 10 per cent in August this year compared to 2023, to well over half of the 7.5 tonnes of site waste.
The site, which this year has welcomed 18,000 visitors to its camping and glamping site, is aiming to become accredited for its environmental performance and is partnering with Grundon to make sure disposal of waste is as eco-friendly as possible.
Business owner Jules Sayer, who with his family set up Petruth Paddocks some 22 years ago, said he has recently deployed innovative methods to ensure recycling rates are remaining high.
“Most campsites don’t bother with recycling at all,” he said. “But it’s written all over our customer communications that we have a zero tolerance policy on black bins bags and that people have to recycle as they go. If they don’t, they’ll be given the option to do it together or take it home.
“Recycling works best when everyone’s actively involved. We found that by employing young people to be by the bins when people leave, any issues became more easily resolved. The youngsters also learn some valuable people lessons in the process.
“That’s very much the ethos we want to deploy here – not a battle, but a collaborative effort by all parties to do the right thing.
“Grundon are a great help in providing the personal touch to their customers – us, in this case – and making us feel like we’re a valuable part of their business.”
Jules Sayer
Business Owner
“That’s important to us too, given that our whole purpose is about looking after our customers so that they feel valued then want to come back with friends and family.
“It’s about loving our work and the people who visit us, so we’re pleased we have a waste management partner who understands the journey we’re on and embraces the same values.”
Grundon has been working with Petruth Paddocks for three years now, led by sales lead Nick Malvern with support from apprentice salesman Charlie Powell.
“We’ve been really impressed with the way that Jules and his staff have emphasised the importance of recycling to Petruth Paddocks’ customer base,” said Nick.
“We know it can be hard to insist that customers behave in a certain way. But we also believe that people actually really want to be part of a greater purpose. So we’re not surprised that Jules has had success with his efforts to communicate benefits of the recycling initiatives that the business is deploying. ”
Nick Malvern
Sales Representative
“Of course we’re delighted to support the business in their plans for sustainability accreditation and we’ll be happy to contribute with whatever advice and information the team needs.
“Generally, more and more companies are starting to recognise the benefits of a waste partner who provides more value than simply being competitive on price. It’s those added extras which are the bedrock to our commercial success and we’re proud to be supporting business owners who think the same way that we do.”