Trap waste collection and what we do with it
Grease Trap Waste Collection: What It Is & How It Can Be Put to Good Use
If you run a commercial kitchen — whether it’s a café, restaurant, hotel, or food factory — you’ll know how important it is to keep your grease trap clean and compliant. But what exactly happens to the trap waste once it’s collected? And could it actually be put to good use instead of just thrown away? At Thames Valley Oils, we specialise in safe, efficient grease trap waste collection, and we’re here to shed some light.
What is Grease Trap Waste?
Grease traps are designed to catch fats, oils, and grease (often referred to as “FOG”) before they enter the drainage system. Over time, these materials build up along with food particles, sludge, and wastewater. Left unchecked, this build-up can lead to:
Blocked drains and foul smells
Plumbing damage and costly repairs
Environmental pollution
Fines for non-compliance with UK water regulations
Why Regular Collection Matters
In the UK, it’s a legal requirement for businesses that produce FOG to have proper waste management systems in place. Regular grease trap cleaning and collection not only ensures compliance but also keeps your kitchen running smoothly. We recommend scheduling collections based on kitchen size and output — for most businesses, that’s every 1–3 months.
What Happens After We Collect It?
Here’s where it gets interesting: instead of just disposing of your trap waste, Thames Valley Oils works with licensed processing facilities to ensure it’s handled responsibly. The collected waste can be:
Processed into Biogas
Organic materials in trap waste can be broken down in anaerobic digesters to create biogas — a renewable energy source used for heating, electricity, or fuel.
Converted into Biofertiliser
After treatment, the nutrient-rich residue can be used as an agricultural fertiliser, helping farmers grow crops while reducing reliance on chemical fertilisers.
Recycled into Biodiesel (for the oil content)
Any recoverable fats can be processed and transformed into biodiesel, reducing carbon emissions and helping meet renewable energy targets.
The Environmental Benefits
By recycling and repurposing grease trap waste, we:
Reduce landfill usage
Lower greenhouse gas emissions
Support renewable energy production
Promote a circular economy
Why Choose Thames Valley Oils for Trap Waste Collection?
Fully licensed for waste collection and disposal
Fast, reliable service to minimise disruption
Competitive rates with transparent pricing
Sustainability-focused approach
We don’t just collect — we help turn your waste into something valuable.
Contact us today for a free quote or to arrange a regular trap waste collection schedule.
📞 01753 893464