For the first time in four years, Southwark’s biggest waste facility will open its doors next month for a ‘fun-filled day’ of tours, activities and more.
Veolia Southwark‘s annual Wonder Day is returning on Saturday, September 16 to celebrate 170 years as one of the largest facilities in the UK.
On this fun-filled day, visitors can come down and explore the facility. For all those who have ever wondered what happens to their household recycling and rubbish, this is an opportunity to find out.
Guided tours of the recycling centre offer insights into transforming household waste into valuable resources, led by industry experts and frontline staff.
Have you ever wondered where your waste ends up?Visitors will have the opportunity to take a tour inside and talk with industry-leading experts as well as frontline staff who are committed to transforming household waste materials into valuable resources. Tours are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis so be sure to arrive early if you want to secure your spot.
Visitors can also expect free activities to keep the whole family entertained. From community gardens selling plants and offering care advice to bike fixing and craft workshops. Community groups from across the whole borough will come together to showcase everything Southwark is doing to tackle the climate crisis.
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Veolia Southwark’s Wonder Day is run as part of Open House London, an annual event that celebrates the city’s housing, architecture and neighbourhoods. For two weeks each year, sites across London take part in the Open House Festival, granting rare glimpses into some of the capital’s best-kept secrets.
Matthew Crane, Veolia Southwark Regional Manager, said: “Wonder Day is an opportunity for the public to witness our state-of-the-art facility in action with all of the recycling processes we have developed in 170 years of Veolia’s rich history.
“It will also highlight the dedication of our frontline colleagues who transform around 120,000 tonnes of household waste into valuable resources every year.”
Cllr James McAsh, Southwark Cabinet Member for Climate Emergency, Streets and Clean Air: “Currently, 32% of Southwark’s waste is recycled. We have one of the highest recycling rates in central London but we still have a way to go. It is estimated that 70% of what we throw away as rubbish is actually recyclable. We look forward to welcoming visitors from far and wide to demonstrate part of recycling and inspire people to recycle more and better.”
Where? Veolia Southwark, 43 Devon Street, SE15 1AL
When? Saturday, September 16 from 10 am – 4 pm (Tours of the facility are assigned on a first come first served basis and will begin at 10 am.)
Admission: Free. Click here for more information.
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