A SPECIALIST chemical company in Keighley has picked up gold for its latest environmental scheme.

Airedale Chemical collected the highest level five-star award at the Investors in Zero Waste awards, which are organised by Environment Media. The awards recognise innovation and the commitment of businesses, public authorities and third sector organisations striving to eliminate waste.

Team members from all departments got involved when the firm implemented a scheme to reduce its landfill to zero and make constructive use of its recyclable waste.

This involved salvaging bulk carriers, monitoring waste thrown into office bins and finding recycling opportunities.

Karen Waddington, health and safety adviser for Airedale Chemical, said: “We have already been awarded for reducing our waste destined for landfill to zero, but with the whole team on board we have now gone a step further and found other, more creative ways for our waste products to be used.

“As part of our partnership with social enterprise SCRAP which helps the environment by re-using waste materials for community educational art and play, we are re-using every additional piece of waste we can – even reclaiming and cleaning out discarded yoghurt pots in preparation for the next chapter of their usable life.”

The Airedale Chemical team was represented at the award ceremony by cleaner Gillian McNulty who contributed to the success of the recycling scheme and joined Ms Waddington and group head of marketing Daniel Marr at the event in London.

Ms McNulty said: “I felt so proud and excited representing the team in London, but even more delighted that our recycling efforts are making such a difference – and being recognised.

“Every yoghurt pot, every container and every empty bottle we collected was worth every bit of effort. I’m proud of everyone for getting behind this fantastic initiative and making such a difference.”

In 2015, Airedale Chemical won silver at the Green Apple Awards for efficient use of resources and making a positive impact on the environment.