Merton resident and qualified Royal Photographic Society (RPS) member, Vince Harris, is exhibiting as part of the RPS London Region’s Sustainable London project this November. Harris, alongside fellow RPS member Catherine Chetwynd, provides insight into what happens to residents’ recycling after it is collected from their homes through a series of photographs.
Supported by Veolia, Merton Council’s recycling and waste contractor, Harris and Chetwynd were granted access to Veolia’s Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) and Plastics Recovery Facility (PRF) in Rainham and the Plastics Facility (PF) in Dagenham in order to capture images of milk bottles being cleaned and turned into pellets, ready to be made into new products. The resulting photographs showcase the technological advancements in recycling and how residents that correctly sort their recycling are contributing to a circular economy, with old products being turned into a material that can be made into new products.
The exhibition will be open between 11am - 6pm on 6 - 9 November at the Four Corners Gallery, 121 Roman Road, Bethnal Green, E2 0QN and is free to attend.
Scott Edgell, General Manager, South London at Veolia, said: “We are proud to deliver high quality services for Merton residents, allowing them to recycle a wide range of items from home. We hope to inspire households to recycle even more after seeing how items correctly sorted for recycling can become new products, helping to create a more circular economy and sustainable future for everyone.”
Ross Garrod, Leader of Merton Council, said: “With a yearly recycling rate of 39.53% for 2023/24—surpassing the London average—Merton Council is dedicated to promoting effective recycling practices. It’s inspiring to see local photographer Vince bring this vital project to life through his captivating imagery. His dedication provides a compelling insight into the positive impact we can achieve when residents actively engage with recycling in their daily lives.”
