Waste Removal Greenwich Modern Slavery Statement
This Modern Slavery Statement is issued by Waste Removal Greenwich for the financial year ending 31 December 2025. It sets out the steps we are taking to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise that modern slavery is a serious violation of fundamental human rights and we are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all of our business relationships.
Our Business and Supply Chains
Waste Removal Greenwich provides waste collection, recycling, and disposal services to domestic, commercial, and public sector clients in Greenwich and surrounding areas. Our supply chains include providers of vehicles, fuel, personal protective equipment, waste containers, maintenance services, office supplies, and specialist waste processing facilities. We understand that some of these supply chains can be complex and may extend beyond the United Kingdom, which increases the importance of a robust and proactive approach to managing modern slavery risks.
Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery
We adopt a zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery and human trafficking in any part of our business or supply chain. This means we will not knowingly engage with, support, or benefit from any organisation or individual involved in forced labour, debt bondage, servitude, child labour, or human trafficking. All employees, contractors, and suppliers are expected to uphold this commitment.
Our zero-tolerance stance is reflected in our internal policies, supplier requirements, and the standards we apply to recruitment, working conditions, and worker welfare. Any breach or suspected breach of this policy is treated as a serious matter that may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or contract.
Supplier Due Diligence and Audits
We recognise that our most significant modern slavery risks may arise within our supply chains. To address these risks, we conduct due diligence on new and existing suppliers, proportionate to the nature of the goods or services they provide and the geographic location of their operations.
Our supplier due diligence measures include assessing suppliers on their labour practices, requiring confirmation that they comply with relevant modern slavery and human rights legislation, and reviewing any existing statements or policies they have in place. Where we identify higher-risk categories, we may request additional information, conduct targeted risk assessments, or seek evidence of third-party certifications.
We reserve the right to conduct audits of selected suppliers to verify compliance with our modern slavery expectations. These audits may be carried out by our own representatives or by qualified third parties. If a supplier fails to meet our standards or refuses to engage constructively, we will work with them to implement corrective actions. Where serious or persistent non-compliance is identified, we may suspend or terminate the relationship.
Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing
We actively encourage employees, contractors, suppliers, and other stakeholders to report any concerns about potential modern slavery or human trafficking within our operations or supply chains. Concerns can be raised with line managers, senior management, or through our confidential whistleblowing channels. Reports may be made anonymously where permitted by law, and all concerns will be taken seriously and investigated promptly.
We are committed to ensuring that no individual who raises a concern in good faith suffers any form of retaliation or detrimental treatment. This protection applies whether or not the concern is ultimately substantiated. Where appropriate, we will cooperate with law enforcement agencies and other relevant authorities in investigating suspected cases of modern slavery or human trafficking.
Training, Awareness, and Accountability
To support effective implementation of this statement, we provide training and guidance to relevant employees, particularly those involved in procurement, contract management, and site operations. Training covers the signs of modern slavery, how to respond to concerns, and the responsibilities of individuals when dealing with suppliers and third parties.
Managers are responsible for promoting a culture of openness and integrity, ensuring that our zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery is understood and reflected in day-to-day decisions. Performance and compliance with this policy form part of our broader governance framework and are periodically reviewed by senior management.
Monitoring and Annual Review
We are committed to continuous improvement in identifying and mitigating modern slavery risks. We will review this Modern Slavery Statement annually to evaluate the effectiveness of our measures, reflect any changes in our business or supply chains, and incorporate emerging best practice and legal developments.
As part of the annual review, we will consider feedback from audits, supplier assessments, incident reports, and employee observations, and we will use this information to strengthen our policies, procedures, and training. Updated versions of this statement will be approved at senior level and made available to our stakeholders.
This statement has been approved by the management of Waste Removal Greenwich and represents our ongoing commitment to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in all aspects of our business operations.
