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Environmental and economic revitalization underway on Isle of Wight through new initiative

Environmental and Economic Enhancement Initiated on Isle of Wight: Industrial Report

Island's environmental and economic enhancement through the recently launched initiative on Isle of...
Island's environmental and economic enhancement through the recently launched initiative on Isle of Wight

Environmental and economic revitalization underway on Isle of Wight through new initiative

Wight Building Materials is currently in the process of installing an innovative filter press, a technology from Associated Press, as part of a multi-million-pound project aimed at making sand and gravel extraction more efficient and environmentally friendly. This groundbreaking machine, scheduled to become operational in July, marks a significant step towards a greener future for the Isle of Wight-based company.

The filter press, the only such machine on the Isle of Wight and one of only a few in the UK used in aggregate production, comprises 220 polypropylene plates shrouded in a filter cloth. This state-of-the-art machine is designed to treat processed silt prior to discharge to lagoons, mechanically squeezing out most of the moisture. As a result, water usage in the processing of aggregate materials is reduced by a significant amount, with water from the filter press process being sent for recycling.

The traditional practice of using large lagoons to filter water away from extracted materials before the by-product is dry enough for landscaping will soon come to an end. Instead, the filter press produces a semi-dry material that can immediately be used for constructing landscapes in restoration. This not only reduces the need for land and lorry movements but also ensures a steady supply of suitable material for Wight Building Materials' ongoing restoration work.

Wight Building Materials is proud of its Isle of Wight roots and is committed to operating to the highest standards and looking after the environment in a responsible way. The company is also dedicated to supporting local businesses, with the filter press project involving partnership with many Isle of Wight businesses.

The filter press project is a major investment and logistical undertaking for Wight Building Materials. However, the benefits are clear: the new technology reduces water usage, minimises land and lorry movements, and produces a higher quality and more quickly available material for quarry restoration. Furthermore, the decommissioning of the lagoons, which have been used for over 50 years, will allow them to be restored to nature.

In conclusion, the introduction of the filter press at Wight Building Materials signifies a significant stride towards more sustainable sand and gravel extraction. The company's commitment to innovation, the environment, and the local community is evident in this exciting project, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on the Isle of Wight.

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