AG Paving and Building Products (AG) has reached another significant sustainability milestone, becoming one of the first manufacturing companies in the UK to achieve the Responsible Plastic Management (RPM) Program’s Zero Plastic to Landfill certification.

Independently verified through a rigorous audit process, this achievement highlights the Fivemiletown-based manufacturer’s ongoing commitment to improving resource efficiency, minimising waste, and supporting the transition towards a more circular economy.

Achieved during Plastic Free July, the certification confirms that 100% of the plastic waste generated across AG’s Fivemiletown and Toomebridge operations is diverted from landfill and managed through controlled, traceable recovery routes.

The RMM Program supports organisations in improving how plastic is used, managed and recovered. Its Zero Plastic to Landfill Challenge provides businesses with a structured pathway for identifying plastic waste streams, improving segregation and recovery, setting measurable targets and developing a complete audit trail. Through verification and independent assessment, RPM provides reassurance that participating organisations are managing plastic responsibly and can substantiate their environmental claims with credible evidence.

As part of the Zero Plastic to Landfill assessment, AG was required to demonstrate a clear and comprehensive audit trail for all plastic waste generated across its operations. In collaboration with the company’s waste management provider, AG undertook a detailed review of its existing waste management practices. This included identifying plastic materials within waste streams, validating final treatment routes with partners, and confirming that no AG plastics were disposed of through landfill.

The assessment confirmed that recyclable materials are separated at source and recovered for reprocessing wherever suitable recycling options are available. Any remaining materials that cannot currently be recycled are diverted from landfill and converted into solid recovered fuel (SRF) for energy recovery. This includes use as an alternative fuel in cement kiln operations, helping to reduce reliance on traditional fossil fuels.

Other suitable residual materials are processed into refuse-derived fuel (RDF), which is used to generate electricity at approved energy recovery facilities across Europe. Through these processes, AG ensures that its waste is managed responsibly, maximising resource recovery and supporting its commitment to a more circular economy.

Through independently verified certifications, including ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and ISO 45001, alongside BES 6001 Responsible Sourcing certification, third-party verified Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) data and recognition through multiple industry awards, AG continues to demonstrate its commitment to sustainable manufacturing across the UK and Ireland.

As one of the company’s core values, Sustainability is embedded across AG’s operations and is central to its ongoing commitment to reducing environmental impact within a traditionally carbon-intensive industry. This commitment is reflected through a range of initiatives, including the development of lower-carbon products such as Woodward Facing Brick and Plaza Paving, supporting biodiversity through being members of the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan, and driving continuous improvement through AG’s Good Catch reporting system, Dulaan.

Achieving Zero Plastic to Landfill Certification represents a significant milestone, but it is not the end of the process. AG will continue to review its waste streams, work with suppliers and waste management partners, and identify opportunities to prevent waste at source.

Aaron Marshall, RPM Program Co-Founder commented:

“Congratulations to AG Paving & Building Products on achieving Zero Plastic to Landfill Certification for both their Fivemiletown and Toomebridge sites. This achievement reflects AG’s continued commitment to responsible resource management, sustainable manufacturing, and responsible plastic management. Through effective waste segregation, eliminating plastic sent to landfill, and maximising recycling and recovery, AG is demonstrating how practical, site-level actions can deliver meaningful environmental impact. A huge thank you to everyone involved in the certification process, with special recognition to Cathy Maguire and Steven Curley from AG, alongside Ryan Bogue and the team at Skip Services, for their commitment and support throughout the certification process. This accomplishment highlights the value of collaboration and sets a strong example for the wider manufacturing industry.”

Cathy Maguire, HSEQ Manager, AG said:

“Achieving Zero Plastic to Landfill Certification is an important milestone for AG and reflects the work taking place across our sites to manage resources more responsibly. It required close collaboration between our HSEQ team, colleagues across the business and Skip Services to understand every plastic waste stream and establish clear, traceable recovery routes. While we are proud of this achievement, our focus remains on preventing waste at source and continuing to identify practical improvements that support a more circular approach across our operations.”

Pictured L–R: Aaron Marshall, Engagement Director – Responsible Plastic Management Program, Cathy Maguire, HSEQ Manager – AG.