Wood RecyclAbility has successfully installed a new state-of-the-art wood chipper, thanks to a six-figure investment funded by the Just Transition Fund, Clothworkers’ Foundation, Udny Community Trust, and the Gordon & Ena Baxter Foundation.
The new chipper enables the organisation to produce both Grade G100 and G50 woodchip for the construction industry and the biomass market.
The journey to securing the chipper was not without challenges. Earlier this year, Wood RecyclAbility fell victim to an international money scam, which resulted in the theft of the second payment for the chipper. Despite police and bank investigations, the funds were not recovered.
However, the organisation was able to negotiate a settlement with the supplier. Support from Udny Community Trust and the Gordon & Ena Baxter Foundation, along with contributions from Friends of Wood RecyclAbility, ensured that the order was completed, and the chipper is now fully operational.
Brian Reid, operations manager at Wood RecyclAbility, commented: “The installation of the new chipper is a game-changer for us. It strengthens our ability to meet growing industry demand while supporting our mission of providing meaningful work experience for adults with additional support needs. We're incredibly grateful to our funding partners and supporters for making this possible.”
Established in 1997, Wood RecyclAbility provides practical work experience for adults with additional support needs through the recycling and reuse of waste wood.
The organisation has grown from two staff and six trainees to seven staff and supports 25 trainees working daily at its purpose-built facility on five acres of land. On average, 1,500 tonnes of waste wood are processed each year, with 30 tonnes chipped weekly for use in chipboard, MDF, and biomass fuel.
Wood RecyclAbility continues to combine environmental impact with social value, demonstrating how a sustainable business model can support both the community and the planet.
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