London Luton Airport re-appoints Cawleys to deliver its waste management services for a further five years
Cawleys, a subsidiary of SUEZ in the UK, has been reappointed by LLA to deliver its waste management services for a further five years, building on a successful partnership that supports the airport’s waste management plans and sustainability goals.
The contract extension follows the original award in 2021 and will see Cawleys continue to manage all airside and landside waste operations, supporting the airport’s environmental targets while introducing new innovations in recycling, digital technology and carbon reduction.
Since the partnership began, Cawleys has played a pivotal role in driving significant improvements across the airport, including achieving zero waste to landfill (www.london-luton.co.uk/corporate/sustainability/reports-and-performance) and increasing recycling rates well beyond initial targets.
The collaboration has also contributed to a major cultural shift in recycling behaviours across more than 40 on-site partners and concessions.
Building on this success, the renewed contract will focus on further enhancing operational efficiency and continuing to drive strong performance through the partnership. Plans include the introduction of solar-powered compactors, expanded circular economy initiatives such as reusable cup schemes, and supporting exploration of waste to fuel opportunities.
Digital innovation will also play a key role, with inclusion of AI-powered advancements and enhanced tracking capabilities allowing for insights into passenger waste patterns.
The extended partnership aligns with LLA’s long-term sustainability ambitions, including continued improvements in recycling, circular economy and efficiencies.
Pete Greig, Key Account Director at Cawleys said, “We’re incredibly proud to be continuing our partnership with London Luton Airport for another five years. Since 2021, we’ve worked closely together to deliver measurable, award-winning improvements in recycling, waste reduction and sustainability.
This extension is a testament to the strength of that collaboration and shared ambition. Looking ahead, we’re excited to bring forward new innovations that we hope will help drive performance and success with the airport on its sustainability ambitions.”
Chris Gibbons, Head of Commercial Property at London Luton Airport, added: “We are delighted to be extending our partnership with Cawleys. Over the past five years, they have consistently delivered high-quality, reliable services, while helping us to deliver on our commitments set out within our Responsible Business Strategy and continue to deliver on our waste and circular economy ambitions.
Their proactive approach, innovative thinking and strong on-site presence have made a real difference across London Luton Airport. As we look to the future, we’re excited to continue working together to explore new technologies and increase, encourage and promote recycling even further.”
Cawleys’ approach combines operational expertise with continuous improvement, supported by data-driven insights, stakeholder engagement and innovative waste solutions.
Key achievements to date include:
A 35% increase in recycling rates within the airport terminal - 81% of LLA Operational Waste was recycled in 2025 versus 60% in 2019
Zero waste to landfill
Improved waste segregation and reduced general waste volumes through knowledge and data sharing with on-site concessions
Introduction of specialist recycling streams for items such as coffee cups and food waste
Development of partnerships to support reuse and community initiatives building on previous success in increasing recycling rates.
The new contract will build on these foundations.