THE MINISTER for Nature has praised a Rugby facility which makes alternative fuel from household, commercial and industrial waste, as it celebrated a milestone.
Mary Creagh MP visited the SUEZ Rugby Solid Recovered Fuel (SRF) Facility at Malpass Farm as it marked the production of a million tonnes of the alternative fuel – known as Climafuel – since opening in 2015.
SUEZ displayed its innovative methods for creating Climafuel, which is used by cement manufacturer Cemex as an alternative fuel in its kiln operations.
The sustainable fuel aims to completely replace coal and gas, enabling Cemex to operate completely on alternative fuels in the future.
Minister for Nature, Mary Creagh, said: “We know far too many of our precious resources are going to waste and that we need bold, innovative approaches to maximise their value.
“Where waste cannot be avoided, it is essential to explore what other benefits it can provide – such as in energy generation. That’s why I was delighted to visit SUEZ’s Malpass Farm facility today as they celebrated their significant milestone, providing a shining example of partnership working in action.”
She was accompanied on her visit by Rugby MP John Slinger, who added: “We saw the excellent work of the team to utilise recycled products to create Climafuel.
“It’s inspiring to see waste being put to good use, ensuring the continued manufacture of concrete – a critically important product in our modern world.”
Dr Adam Read MBE, SUEZ Chief External Affairs and Sustainability Officer, said: “We have been working in partnership with Cemex since 2013 and it’s fantastic to see such a milestone achieved as the UK looks to decarbonise as one of the ways to cut its global emissions.
“It is a real win-win for both our customer and the environment.”
Phil Baynes-Clarke, Director of Cement Operations for Cemex UK, added: “Our partnership with SUEZ has been instrumental in significantly reducing carbon emissions at our Rugby Cement Plant.
“Our ultimate goal is to operate the kiln with 100 per cent alternative fuels, and we are getting close to this target. Through ongoing innovation, we are determined to continue decarbonising our operations and advancing towards our goal of carbon neutrality.”
