Recycling Lives achieves B Corp status

Preston-based recycling and waste management company, Recycling Lives, has achieved coveted B Corporation (B Corp) certification.

The business was founded on the principles of creating social value in 2008, and has since expanded this to deliver environmental innovation and strong commercial offerings, with ESG as a fully embedded business ethos since it received private equity investment from Three Hills Capital.

B Corp status is notoriously difficult to secure and businesses are measured over five key impact areas: environment, governance, workers, community and customers.

Recycling Lives scored an impressive 137.9 within the company’s impact assessment – exceeding the necessary qualifying score of 80 and putting it amongst the top performing B Corps globally.

Recycling Lives is the UK’s largest scrap car processing business but looks to create social value by assisting ex-offenders into stable jobs and promoting a self-sufficient path for people who’ve had tough lives.

Gerry Marshall, chief executive of Recycling Lives, said: “It has always been hugely important that we make a genuine, positive difference on both a social and environmental basis – it’s the reason we exist. Through our unique business model, we are driving transformational change and growing a business where people, the planet and profits all go hand in hand. 

“The B Corp process is an incredibly demanding and highly individual assessment, and this certification is a fantastic result of our purpose and beliefs. However, whilst we’re immensely proud to be recognised, this is just a step on our journey in making further progress toward our sustainability targets, whilst delivering meaningful opportunities across schools, colleges, the justice system, and disadvantaged groups.”

Stefanie Kneer, head of ESG & sustainability at Three Hills Capital, said: “ With this step the business affirms its mission to be a force for good, giving materials as well as people a second chance, and cementing its thought leadership in the industry. For investors and advisors alike, it sends a strong signal that there has been real focus on positive value creation, adhering to or surpassing some of the highest ESG standards.”