Magpie Recycling Coop Ltd

Magpie Recycling co‑operative began life in 1990 when a group of three volunteers collected drink cans, glass and office paper from local businesses in Brighton. It now employs over 20 people and has significantly expanded its range of services. Whilst still operating domestic and businesses recycling - using electric powered milk floats alongside gas and biofuel combustion engines - it has developed other environmentally-conscious services including a furniture collection and resale project - Shabitat, and gardening services. Magpie's consultancy service runs public awareness drives, kerbside advice, recycling events and projects building partnerships to better waste re-use. The co‑operative structure and lack of shareholders means that every employee has maximum opportunity to influence the performance and direction of the business. All employees have, after two years service, the option to become a member of the co‑operative. The general council - comprising all members - ultimately governs the running of the business.

Magpie is committed to helping people adapt to climate change. In addition to its core recycling business it is also working with the University of Brighton to trial a new food waste system designed to improve recovery of food waste in the city. Magpie Recycling is ideally placed because they are respected locally as a long-standing co‑operative and a forward looking, environmentally savvy, community-based business.

Whilst Magpie Recycling has obvious green credentials, it also has a strong social commitment. The furniture project, which collects donated furniture free of charge, then sells it on at cost to those on a low income. Many of these customers come to Magpie through social services, with whom the company also works with on a low cost removals and storage facility - now available to all residents of Brighton and Hove.