Plasterboard waste is classed as a non-hazardous material, however, disposal of plasterboard is heavily regulated with a legal requirement to handle and dispose of it correctly. Click here for legislation.
Plasterboard is made from gypsum and paper; it comprises of an inner layer of gypsum that is sandwiched together with outer layers of lining paper. Its versatile properties make it a popular material for the construction industry.. Plasterboard is widely used for building homes for use in wall linings, partitions and for fire protection.
The chemical make up of gypsum is the reason strict regulations need to be followed. If gypsum waste is mixed with biodegradable waste it results in the production of odorous and toxic hydrogen sulphide gas. Exposure to this gas could cause breathing difficulties or skin and eye irritation.
What we do:
Plasterboard waste is bulked up at local waste transfer stations or demolition sites
Alfred contact customers weekly to arrange bulk waste collections of plasterboard
Plasterboard waste is transported to a central recycling location
Invoice to customer
How do we do it:
As is the case with all waste, if it can be recycled it should. Alfred collect thousands of tonnes of plasterboard and gypsum waste every week with a zero waste policy.
Recycled plasterboard is widely used in the construction, manufacturing and agricultural industries, and here’s how:
New plasterboard – during the recycling process, gypsum powder is recovered and used as raw material to manufacture new plasterboard
Cement – gypsum waste controls the setting of cement, making the setting process quicker and therefore easier to work with
Used in soil – gypsum waste contains hydrated calcium sulphate which has a positive impact on plant nutrients. Research for agricultural uses suggest as the growth of potatoes and mushrooms benefit the most.