ETCIC is to be the Humber region's co-ordinators for a major national "Waste Swap Shop" scheme for businesses and community groups.

The Why Waste initiative, supported by Yorkshire Forward, is a free online waste exchange, allowing registered members to advertise material they do not want or to advertise for material they do want. The scheme is being run regionally by the Bradford Environment Action Trust (BEAT) and the team at the Environmental Technologies Centre of Industrial Collaboration (ETCIC) has been selected to administer and promote the scheme across the Humber region. The Centre's Commercial Manager, Dr David Calvert, comments, "One company's waste is another company's raw materials, so this service will bring substantial benefits to business, whilst making a real contribution to increasing waste recycling and re-use across Yorkshire and Humber and beyond... Open to businesses, community groups and other organisations, you simply need to register online and answer the easy-to-follow questions about the type of waste material, how much waste there is and in which area. Buyers and sellers can them simply make the relevant contacts themselves and agree collection and price. It is very simple and very effective."

All entries will be vetted to ensure no unsuitable products are being advertised under the Materials Available or Materials Wanted sections of the website. ETCIC will be assisted in this task in the Humber region by the Humber Resource Efficiency Centre (HREC). Terry Lander, from HREC adds, "The site will also give updates, latest news, case studies and clear guidance on waste treatment legislation, which will be invaluable to anyone who wants to get rid of materials that are no longer required and anyone who may have use for them."

The scheme in the Humber will be launched at the Deep on the afternoon of 20 March 2007, starting at 2.30pm. The event will outline details of the scheme and other opportunities for support on sustainable business in the region. Representatives of the various initiatives will be available to offer advice and the event will end with a buffet and a free guided tour of the Deep visitor attraction. Places are limited and representatives of businesses and community groups are asked to register by email or contact Fiona Hartnett on 01482 466 940.

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