Whiteware Recycling: Our Process
WRITTEN BY KATE GISLASON
When it comes to recycling, fridges, freezers, and other large household appliances need special treatment. They are packed with materials that can be harmful to the environment if not handled correctly — but also full of resources that can be recovered and reused. At EcoCentral, we make sure every step is managed safely and responsibly.
The process begins with our specialist degassing team, who carefully remove refrigerants from fridges and freezers. These gases can damage the atmosphere if released, so capturing and dealing with them properly is critical. From there, we work in partnership with CoolSafe, who ensure safe recovery and destruction of synthetic refrigerants and minimise harm to the environment.
Once the refrigerants are removed, the appliances are broken down so the valuable materials inside can be recovered. Metals such as steel and copper are separated and sent to RRT, where they are recycled and returned to use in new products. Even plastics and other components are sorted, with each material stream directed to its appropriate recycling pathway.
This careful process means nothing is left to chance. Every fridge, freezer, or whiteware item dropped at an EcoDrop is handled with a focus on safety, responsibility, and resource recovery. By working with our partners and using specialist teams, we make sure these bulky items don’t become a burden on landfill, but instead are part of a smarter, circular system.
It’s another way EcoCentral is turning potential waste into opportunity — protecting the environment while making the most of the resources we already have.
