Enva invests £7.5m to boost UK recycling capacity with first-of-its-kind fridge compressor facility and small mixed WEEE processing capability

Due to open in January 2027, the fully redeveloped site will deliver 25,000 tonnes per annum of SDA processing capacity, with the potential to increase to 35,000 tonnes.

Addressing a critical capacity gap

The investment comes at a time when dedicated, fully compliant SDA treatment capacity in England remains constrained, highlighting the need for additional infrastructure.

The new facility will deploy Best Available Technique (BAT) processes, including:

• Segregated external storage for incoming SDA
• Pre-pick systems for battery removal
• Advanced automated separation targeting high-value materials such as non-ferrous metals and printed circuit boards
• Reduced manual handling through a highly automated process

This approach marks a step change from legacy models focused on bulk shredding and volume throughput, enabling more targeted material recovery and improved environmental outcomes.

Once operational, the Stourbridge facility will increase Enva’s total SDA recycling capacity across the UK and Ireland to more than 80,000 tonnes per annum, complementing existing operations in Toomebridge (Ireland) and Perth (Scotland).

UK-first compressor processing capability

The site will also become the only facility in the UK capable of fully compliant, end-to-end processing of fridge compressors, producing 99% pure copper as a high-quality output material. This responds directly to the Environment Agency’s ban on exporting fridge compressors.

A fully automated processing line will enable efficient recovery of critical raw materials, including copper and aluminium, building on technology already proven across Enva’s network.

This capability represents a significant shift away from reliance on export markets, ensuring valuable materials are retained within the UK for reuse in manufacturing.

Recovered materials from the facility will be utilised across Enva’s wider network, where they will be processed into high-quality recycled plastic compounds and a range of other secondary raw materials. These outputs support the transition to a more circular economy and help reduce reliance on finite natural resources.

Barry Phillips, Managing Director, e-Waste, Plastics & Glass at Enva, said:

“This investment marks a major step forward in closing the UK’s gap in compliant SDA treatment capacity. Our new facility brings together best-in-class technology to maximise the recovery of critical raw materials.

By introducing fully automated fridge compressor processing in the UK, we’re not only responding to regulatory change but also ensuring high-value materials like copper are recovered at exceptional purity and retained within the domestic supply chain. This is a practical step towards a more circular and resource-efficient future for WEEE processing.”

Supporting regional infrastructure

The development will deliver new compliant recycling infrastructure in the Midlands, reducing transport distances and supporting more efficient ‘treat at home’ processing.

Existing operations at the Stourbridge site will continue uninterrupted throughout construction and ramp-up.