The Canal & River Trust
Reconomy Connect and Canal & River Trust: Turning Waste into Social Value
Reconomy Connect recently partnered with the Canal & River Trust (CRT) to transform a challenging waste issue into meaningful social impact, supporting both environmental protection and vulnerable young people through The National House Project.
About the Canal & River Trust (CRT)
The Canal & River Trust is a charity responsible for caring for more than 2,000 miles of waterways across England and Wales. Their mission is to maintain safe, clean, and environmentally responsible land and waterways for the public.
When an abandoned vehicle was discovered on CRT land, it created both an environmental hazard and a safety risk, prompting the Trust to seek a responsible, community‑focused solution.
Who is The National House Project (NHP)
The National House Project is a charity partner of The Reconomy Social Enterprise, supporting young people leaving care by helping them transition into independent adult living.
Profits from suitable waste‑related projects, including this one, are donated to NHP, creating direct social value and long‑term community benefits.
The Challenge
An abandoned vehicle was reported on CRT land, posing environmental and safety risks. CRT needed a solution that not only removed the vehicle responsibly and in line with environmental best practice but also aligned with their sustainability and community values.
They were looking for a solution that delivered more than just waste removal.
The Solution
Reconomy Connect coordinated a fully managed, socially responsible disposal process:
Safe Removal
- Secure collection and transportation of the abandoned vehicle
- Full compliance with environmental and safety standards
Social Value Through Reuse
- The vehicle was auctioned, with 100% of proceeds donated to The National House Project
- Turning what would otherwise be waste into measurable community impact
This approach ensured that CRT’s land was restored safely while creating meaningful value for care leavers.
The Outcome
Environmental Benefits
- CRT land restored to a safe, clean condition
- Waste processed responsibly and in line with environmental best practices
Social Impact
- Auction proceeds directly funded NHP’s work supporting young people leaving care
- Waste transformed into long‑term community benefit
This partnership demonstrates how responsible waste management can generate far‑reaching social value.
Client Testimonial
“Working with Reconomy Connect ensures that even the smallest clean-up project delivers a wider social benefit. By managing abandoned assets responsibly, we’ve been able to support care leavers through the National House Project – turning waste into real community value.”
— The Canal & River Trust