Ever WONDERed what happens to your household recycling and waste after it’s collected? Join the team at Veolia Southwark for a fun, free, family friendly day out on Saturday 14 September and uncover the innovative solutions that are transforming waste into a valuable resource for over two million Londoners.
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Veolia Southwark is opening its doors once again for ‘Wonder Day’ on Saturday 14 September, from 10am to 4pm. This exclusive annual celebration offers a unique opportunity to explore the advanced processes that are driving ecological transformation at the purposefully discreet facility, hidden in plain sight just off Old Kent Road. ‘Wonder Day’ is part of the Open House Festival, a week-long celebration in September that grants Londoners exclusive access to unseen parts of the city. This is the only day of the year that the facility is open to the general public for tours, stalls, games and experts for residents to ask key questions about recycling.
Veolia’s flagship facility has been operational since 2012 and is one of the most advanced facilities in Europe. Serving Southwark and neighbouring boroughs of Westminster, Greenwich, City of London, Lewisham and Lambeth as well as commercial services from across London, this facility is at the forefront of recycling innovation. The Material Recovery Facility (MRF), where household recycling is sorted and separated manually and with machinery, boasts the capability to sort one of the largest ranges of household recyclables in the UK. The Mechanical and Biological Treatment (MBT), processes general waste and diverts the output to create energy which helps heat 2,800 Southwark homes.
Visitors will have the opportunity to embark on guided tours of both facilities on a first-come, first-served basis. Additionally, two children’s tours for the youngest guests will be offered at 12:15 and 12:35, catering for families with children under nine or those who do not meet the height requirements, ensuring the experience is available for all ages.
As well as tours of the facility, there are plenty more free and eco-friendly activities to entertain the whole family such as:
Vehicle display shows demonstrating the power and innovation of the vehicles such as forklifts and shovels that rarely leave the plant
Upcycling workshops equipping visitors with the skills to transform old items into sustainable treasures
Fixing and maintenance to repair your broken bikes
Walworth Garden seed ball making workshop for easy gardening
The Recycling Discovery Centre where children can explore the fascinating world of recycling through hands-on activities
Matthew Crane, Regional Manager at Veolia Southwark said:
“We’re delighted to be once again opening our doors for Wonder Day, offering the community a unique glimpse into the innovative world of waste management and recycling. This event is more than just facility tours; it’s an opportunity for visitors to see first hand how their everyday actions contribute to a more sustainable future. We want visitors of all ages to leave with a renewed enthusiasm for recycling and a deeper understanding of how we’re working together to create a greener Southwark.”
Cllr James McAsh, Cabinet Member for Clean Air, Streets and Waste said:
“Wonder Day is an incredible opportunity for Southwark residents to see firsthand the innovative solutions that are transforming our waste into valuable resources. This family-friendly event not only educates but also inspires our community to play an active role in creating a more sustainable future. I encourage all residents to take advantage of this unique chance to explore, learn, and engage with the technology that’s making Southwark a leader in recycling and waste management.”
