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BML WASTE MANAGEMENT BLOG

What does garden clearance include?

by BML Waste Management

November 2023
clock 3 min

As London welcomes the changing seasons, countless Londoners are tasked with the seasonal garden maintenance that comes with it. The accumulation of organic debris, such as autumnal leaves, pruned branches, and other types of green waste, requires prompt attention to maintain the aesthetic and health of their gardens. The tendency, however, is to postpone the disposal of this waste, with intentions to visit the refuse site often delayed, leading to unsightly and unmanageable piles. Moreover, inclement weather can swiftly turn neglected heaps into a sodden mess, complicating removal efforts.

The advantages of engaging a dedicated garden waste removal service span across the entirety of London. These services not only alleviate the physical demands of waste collection but also navigate the complexities of London's environmental regulations, which can vary by borough and be particularly stringent. The increasing trend of Londoners forgoing car ownership compounds the challenge of transporting garden refuse to appropriate facilities.

For a comprehensive and stress-free solution, professional waste removal services offer scheduled, regular collections. This is not just a convenience but a commitment to environmental stewardship, ensuring that garden waste is removed efficiently and responsibly, in alignment with city-wide sustainability goals. Such services provide peace of mind and contribute to the collective effort to keep London's green spaces, and the city itself, cleaner and greener.

What items can be collected in garden waste clearance?


Professional clearance companies can clear a vast array of organic material from your outdoor spaces. Below is an outline of the garden debris typically collected:

- Overgrown weeds and vegetation
- Clippings from hedges
- Excavated soil
- Surplus gardening tools and apparatus
- Garden furniture
- Fallen branches and segments of trees
- Uprooted shrubs and bushes
- Accumulations of leaves and mown grass
- Used pots and gardening containers
- Withered flora including plants and flowers

DIY vs. professional garden waste clearance services


In London, gardeners must carefully consider their approach to waste disposal, balancing factors such as the sheer volume of waste against the time and equipment they have available. For those with the necessary tools, taking a DIY approach to garden waste removal can be the more economical choice. Purchasing a few sturdy garden waste bags might be the only expense. This method puts the gardener in full command, allowing them to schedule the cleanup at their convenience and handle smaller amounts of waste with ease. However, the physicality of the task should not be underestimated. It can be demanding, and while lighter chores like weeding may be manageable, larger clear-outs might prove challenging.

On the other hand, hiring a professional garden waste disposal service offers a multitude of benefits, especially for those with busy lifestyles or without access to suitable equipment. Such services save valuable time and bring a level of expertise that ensures the job is done quickly and effectively. They come equipped to deal with all kinds of waste, no matter the quantity, saving residents from the hassle and physical labour.

Moreover, professional teams are well-versed in the health and safety aspects of garden waste removal, adept at handling bulky or hazardous materials safely. They are also knowledgeable about the strict regulations governing waste disposal in London, ensuring compliance and avoiding potential fines or legal issues. For any Londoner looking for a hassle-free and environmentally responsible way to dispose of garden waste, a professional clearance service is an invaluable resource, ensuring that the task is not just done, but done right, adhering to the city’s green policies.

5 top tips for a successful garden clearance


By following these tips, you'll be well-prepared for a garden clearance, leading to a more effective and hassle-free process.

Assess the area - take a thorough walk around your garden to evaluate the extent of waste and the type of debris that needs clearing. This step will help you understand the scope of the task and identify any potential hazards or items that require special handling.

Separate different types of waste - organise your garden waste by categorising it — for instance, keep biodegradable matter like leaves and branches separate from non-compostable items like plastic plant pots and broken garden tools. This makes the clearance process quicker and recycling or disposal more straightforward.

Ensure clear access - make sure there is a clear path for the waste to be removed from your garden to the clearance vehicle. This may involve opening side gates, moving bins, or even notifying neighbours if access through shared spaces is needed.

Check for wildlife - before clearing, inspect the area for any signs of wildlife, especially in piles of leaves or branches, which can be habitats for small animals.

Choose the right time - schedule your garden clearance on a day with good weather, if possible. Clearing waste can be more challenging in the rain, and some waste removal services may have restrictions on working in poor weather conditions. Additionally, choosing a day when you have plenty of time will allow you to oversee the process without rush.

Where does the waste go?

In London, when garden waste is collected by a professional clearance company, it typically follows a sustainable path of disposal or recycling, aiming to minimise environmental impact. Here’s where it generally goes:

Composting - organic waste like leaves, grass cuttings and branches is often taken to a composting facility where it is turned into nutrient-rich compost that can be used in agriculture, landscaping or sold to gardeners.

Green energy production - some garden waste can be used in biomass power plants. These facilities convert bio-degradable waste into energy, often in the form of electricity or heat, through processes like anaerobic digestion or incineration.

Recycling centres - non-hazardous waste that can be recycled, such as certain types of plant pots or garden furniture, is sent to recycling centres where it is processed and turned into new products.

Licensed disposal sites - for waste that can't be composted or recycled, it is taken to licensed disposal sites where it is safely disposed of. These facilities are regulated to ensure that waste does not harm the environment.

Professional clearance companies in London are committed to following the guidelines set by local councils and environmental agencies, ensuring that the garden waste they collect is disposed of responsibly. They typically aim to reduce landfill waste by maximising the amount of waste that is recycled and reused.

Looking for a reliable and eco-friendly solution to your garden waste?


BML Waste Management is your go-to service for efficient garden waste collection in London, catering to both residential homeowners and commercial properties. With years of experience under our belts, we pride ourselves on being not just a service, but a steward of the environment. Our team of professionals is fully trained and licensed, ensuring that your garden waste is handled with the utmost care and professionalism. We understand the nuances of London's waste regulations and are equipped to manage your garden clearance needs while adhering to the highest standards of environmental responsibility. Contact us today to arrange your garden waste collection and join our growing community of environmentally conscious customers. Together, we can keep London clean and green.
BML Waste Management




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