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Thinking of starting a recycling collection service during Birmingham bin strike - advice needed!

sixtysticks

sixtysticks

New Member
i everyone – With the ongoing bin collection strike in Birmingham causing mountains of waste to pile up across the city, I'm considering launching a small eco-friendly recycling transport service. I'd really appreciate some feedback on whether this is viable.

About me...
  • I'm currently working as a courier so I have vehicle and route optimisation experience
  • No waste management experience but passionate about reducing landfill waste
  • Looking to run this solo (no employees) initially

The service concept:
  • Collect pre-sorted recyclables from homes and transport them to proper recycling facilities
  • Focus on materials the council typically handles but can't during the strike
  • Potentially transition to hard-to-recycle items post-strike

Questions:
  1. Is this a sensible business opportunity or am I missing something critical?
  2. What permits/licenses would I definitely need besides a waste carrier license?
  3. Any advice on pricing structure? (Thinking £15-25 per collection or subscription model)
  4. Has anyone attempted something similar during previous strikes?
  5. Best approach for quick, low-cost marketing to affected neighbourhoods?

Any insight would be massively appreciated, especially from those familiar with waste regulations or who've started similar services.

Thanks in advance!
 

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