University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust’s (UHB) approach to recycling has been highlighted as a shining example of "going green".

The Trust received the "highly commended" business recycling scheme award for its mixed recycling scheme at Birmingham City Council’s 2013 annual Recycling Awards.

Radio presenter Elliott Webb presented the award to staff at the ceremony, which was held at Birmingham’s prestigious Council House in Victoria Square.

UHB received the award for introducing more than 600 mixed recycling bins across its hospital sites earlier this year. It enables patients, staff and visitors to take a more environmentally-friendly approach by turning rubbish into recycling.

Almost 50% of all waste is now recycled and more than 190 tonnes of recyclable waste – such as plastic bottles, newspapers, sandwich packets and card coffee cups – have been recycled since the project began.

The bins are just one of a number of ways in which the Trust has shown its commitment to recycling. 

In addition to the everyday waste which can now be recycled, the Trust also disposes of other items – garden waste; white goods such as fridges and other electrical items; fluorescent tubes and light bulbs, as well as old uniforms – in a responsible and recyclable way.

Mark Plant, UHB’s Internal Logistics Manager played a crucial role in the implementation of recycling and was delighted at the news: “I’m thrilled that the Trust has been recognised for its efforts and commitment to recycling.

“A lot of time and hard work has gone into to making sure that there is a way everyone is able to recycle while they’re in the hospital.

 “We have achieved a great deal in a very short space of time and this recognition will inspire us to recycle even more!”

Julie Cox, Purchasing Manager and key part of the project team, added: “This award is great news for the Trust and it is very encouraging to see that the recycling scheme is already making an impact.

“I hope that staff – as well as patients and visitors – will continue to in their efforts to recycle.”