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The waste hierarchy is a framework that guides how we manage waste in the most sustainable way possible. It ranks options from most to least preferable: prevent, reuse, recycle, recover and finally dispose. At the top is prevention—avoiding waste in the first place. At the bottom is disposal, such as landfill or export, which should always be a last resort. At Viridor, we use the waste hierarchy to inform everything we do, helping to move waste higher up the pyramid and reduce the need for disposal.

Recycling is essential, but it’s only one part of the waste hierarchy—and the UK still recycles less than half of its waste. Some materials are too difficult or costly to recycle, while others are contaminated or simply not designed for reuse. That’s why we also focus on prevention, reuse and recovery, including generating energy from waste that can’t be recycled. To meet future recycling targets and reduce environmental impact, we need a joined-up approach that includes investment, innovation and education at every level.

Viridor works 24/7 to stop waste from reaching the bottom of the hierarchy. We invest in advanced recycling, energy recovery and new technologies that help give materials a second life. We're also committed to education and collaboration with local authorities, communities and government to shift behaviours and systems towards prevention, reuse and recycling. Our goal is to create a future where there is less need for disposal and ultimately to build a world where nothing goes to waste.