“We turn waste into valuable raw material”
By 2050 the world will consume as if there were three planets and generate 70 percent more waste than today. Much of the waste is incinerated or disposed of in landfills. But there are circular ways to handle waste. Nicklas Johansson, site manager for one of Stena Recycling’s facilities in Finland, explains how waste can be turned into valuable resources for the manufacturing industries, avoiding disposal, and the use of virgin raw material.
The recycling facility is located outside of Helsinki, Finland. A steady stream of trucks arrives, loaded with all kinds of waste generated by society. Paper from households, plastics, paper, bio waste, electronics and confidential paper from companies.
“Every day is different, but one thing stays the same. We take care of all waste. Our aim is to recycle or reuse as much as possible. We sort, refine, and deliver it back to society as resources. It’s very rewarding to know that we literally save trees every day,” says Nicklas Johansson.
A gigantic scale weighs each truck both on the way in and out to register the amount of waste being delivered. Inside there are machines and conveyor belts that treat and sort the waste. The better the recycling method, the higher the end quality of the raw material to be reused. Every week a plan is made for outbound sales and delivery, with the aim of closing the circle. Incoming waste material is turned into resources that can be sold for further handling and recirculation into society.
“Over the years, the paper quantities have decreased, but society seems to consume more and more plastics. Much of the paper and plastics are handled by manufacturing companies which turn the recycled raw material into products for the industry to reuse in their production. Bio waste is delivered to an energy company, which turns it into biogas for transport companies.”
Worked his way to site manager
Nicklas Johansson started working in the recycling business in 2000 and has had various roles, before becoming site manager.
“I’ve had good managers in the past who have taught me a lot about being a manager. Communication is in my view the most important thing. It must work both ways. Everyone should feel that they get the information they need and that they’re encouraged to contribute to the development of our business with new ideas and perspectives. Everyone’s job is important.”
Being part of the Stena Metall Group entails access to an international network for exchange of experience and ideas.
“Stena Metall Group is a large, international group, but it’s a very down-to-earth and familiar atmosphere here. Everyone is helpful and supportive. We exchange knowledge regarding for example safety and security.”
After having completed military training Nicklas Johansson had his eyes set on becoming a professional pilot.
“I worked extra here while I was applying for the pilot training, but now I’m so glad that I stayed. I’ve truly found my dream job. This is not an ordinary job. You belong to something bigger by helping companies and society to be more circular and lower the climate impact of our consumption,” concludes Nicklas Johansson.
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