ODS scoops national recycling award
ODS' Recycling and Waste Team, in partnership with Oxford City Council, have won the Team of the Year award at MRW's National Recycling Awards.
The MRW National Recycling Awards are among the most prestigious awards in the recycling and resource management sector. They recognise projects and teams for their achievements and seek to recognise and reward excellence and inspire others, for the advancement of the sector.
The MRW National Recycling Awards judges were looking for evidence that the individuals that make up the team had gone above and beyond normal expectations to deliver excellent results. They saw that the team demonstrated the qualities, attitude and approach needed for success, along with individual contributions to the team, a shared commitment to achieving goals, and a positive, inspiring approach.
The Recycling and Waste Team have achieved much this year despite difficult circumstances and challenges. Not least, the team has notched up a record-breaking recycling rate of 53.02% whilst continuing to provide a first rate collection service that embodies ODS’ “doing good” philosophy that puts customers at the heart of the service. This puts us at one of top performing cities when viewed against comparable areas.
Additionally last year, kerbside tonnages rose by 5%, with recycling and food waste up by over 12% compared to the previous year. In total 2,875 tonnes more were collected despite having fewer staff and unprecedented working conditions.
Councillor Lubna Arshad, Cabinet Member for Parks and Waste Reduction, said:
“Our Recycling and Waste Team is made up of first rate and passionate staff, with a commitment to teamwork that has been particularly notable during lockdown."
“Despite these challenges the team has clearly shown that they could support each other and the community of Oxford. I want to thank them and congratulate them on this achievement."
“Winning a National Recycling Award deservingly recognises our team as one of the best in the industry and gives our customers confidence that ODS and Oxford City Council are leading the way in waste management and recycling best practice. Once again, my congratulations to our winning team.”
Maria Warner, Recycling and Waste Services Manager, said:
"An amazing achievement by all involved, we are so very proud of the work and commitment shown by all. The work we do matters, and it’s great to be recognised for this."