REPURPOSING WASTE METAL DESTINED FOR RECYCLING

It has long been discussed that building a circular economy will help drive us towards meeting net zero targets, both at an industry and governmental level. John Lawrie Metals has built its business around this model and continues to find new ways to reuse and repurpose the ‘waste’ material it finds in its yards across the north and north east of Scotland. A positive recent example of this was when we repurposed and exported over 2200 tonnes of used mooring systems acquired through the decommissioning of North Sea oil and gas assets. For perspective, in 2020, we repurposed approximately 3,700 tonnes of mooring material destined for recycling, which helped save up to 3,589 tonnes CO2e. As was the industry norm, redundant wire rope was only ever cut up and recycled. But with our aim of zero to landfill, we are focused on looking for new and innovative ways to repurpose the waste metal we handle. The material has now safely landed in the hands of Europe’s aquaculture industry where it will be used as weights and ballasts for the construction of fish farm pens. Given the size and importance of the aquaculture industry, there is a requirement to maintain the quality and durability of these pens, ensuring they are weighted correctly for optimal production, and therefore this repurposing offers the perfect environmental and economic solution. Working closely with the fish farming industry, we have been a key driver in the early development of this novel, but effective solution and we are steadily increasing our geographical reach and reputation for being a trusted supplier to the aquaculture industry. Dave Weston, John Lawrie Metals MD, said: “We work closely with many North Sea operators and their supply chain to handle and process metal waste from their day-to-day operational activities and the onshore dismantling of offshore structures and subsea infrastructure. “We actively seek new ways for this material to be utilised; using secondary materials in new ways means the natural environment is being preserved as less ore is mined to create new steel products. We estimate that there is an approximate saving of around 30% of raw materials over recycling.” On top of the environmental saving, which is becoming ever more important as businesses work towards meeting industry and governmental net zero targets, we are creating opportunities within diversified markets. Reusing and repurposing material already in existence creates opportunities both in the UK and abroad, increasing environmental and economic value to all stakeholders. By repurposing waste from one industry as a solution to a challenge in another, emissions can virtually be eliminated.

DAVE WESTON