Degree Show 2024

Ranking as the second poorest local authority area in Scotland for waste recycling and contributing 13% to the country’s waste carbon emissions, Glasgow presently contends with significant challenges in waste management. Despite a modest average of 0.39 tonnes of waste per person annually, Glasgow’s three existing recycling centers operate with limited efficacy, each exclusively handling specific material categories.

The proposed Glasgow Waste to Energy Recycling Center (GWERC) seeks to address these shortcomings. With a primary focus on elevating Glasgow’s recycling rates, the GWERC embodies a circular economy approach, presenting a terrific opportunity for positive transformative change.

The strategic vision extends past recycling, encompassing a multifaceted approach. The GWERC is designed to be a hub for community engagement and education, hosting events and initiatives that empower individuals with the knowledge and skills essential for active participation in the upcycling of goods.

Furthermore, the project recognizes and responds to the diminishing presence of traditional outlets for reused goods, exemplified by the decline of car-boot sales. Regulatory changes limiting material collection pose additional challenges to accessing used goods and materials for repair. The GWERC endeavours to rekindle enthusiasm for these community-driven initiatives, fostering a renewed appreciation for second-hand goods.

Through innovative recycling practices, community engagement, and educational initiatives, the GWERC aspires to position Glasgow as an exemplar of responsible waste management, contributing to a reduction in its carbon footprint while instilling a culture of resourcefulness and resilience within its communities.