SUSTAINABILITY

Sustainability has been at the heart of our business since we began operations back in the early 1960s. With a policy of consistent innovation and investment, we have built a track record of delivering commercial success whilst also reducing environmental impact.

Following the recent decision to merge S. Norton systems and structures with those of recycled polymer business Axion Polymers (acquired in 2018), we are now carrying out a full review of sustainability across our joint operations. This involves working to establish baseline measures, consolidate what we are already doing well, identify where we need to be better, and agree new goals. At the start of 2025, we published our first Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) report.

S. Norton Group Environmental, Social and Governance report.

Maximising materials recovery

By producing high-grade products from materials that would otherwise be lost, we conserve precious resources, divert waste from landfill, and reduce the need for new raw materials. This in turn means less mining, less demand for oil-based virgin polymer, and lower levels of greenhouse gas emissions

Zero waste commitment

We have set a goal of recycling 100% of the material received (subject to what is achievable within the legal framework) via improved processes. The Group currently averages 95%.

To maximise materials recovery, we are continuing to invest in new extraction, cleaning and separation technology. This technology includes a £20m investment in a world class shredder facility at our Manchester site, which works alongside our unique Shredder Waste Advanced Processing Plant (SWAPP). The result is an integrated process enabling us to both produce higher quality ferrous and non-ferrous scrap materials and recover non-metallic elements from a wide range of waste electrical equipment as well as vehicles. These non-metallic elements include the plastics we then use as feedstock for Axion Polymers products.

Improving operational sustainability

We take responsibility for the environmental impacts of our activities and keep working to reduce them. Following a ‘Best available techniques’ (BAT) approach, we research and implement the techniques that will best prevent or minimise emissions and harmful impacts on the environment. We are also working to improve our social impact and ensure sound governance.