Waste is not always what it seems
A container arriving at a waste facility can look simple from the outside. But inside could be a complex mix of materials requiring specialist knowledge, careful assessment and the right technical decisions.
This is where a Site Chemist makes the difference.
Meet Besar Asani, Site Chemist at Axil Cannock, who helps customers safely manage chemical and complex waste streams by combining chemistry, legislation and practical waste management expertise.
With a first-class BEng (Hons) in Chemical Engineering, Besar brings scientific knowledge and industry experience to a role that is essential in helping businesses reduce risk, improve compliance and identify opportunities for better environmental outcomes.
Why do waste companies need chemists?
Modern waste management is no longer just about collection and disposal. Businesses need confidence that their waste is correctly understood, classified and managed through the right route.
Chemists help answer important questions:
What is in this waste stream?
How should it be safely handled?
Does it meet regulatory requirements?
Can materials be recovered or recycled?
At Axil, this technical expertise helps customers make better decisions about their waste.
A typical day as a Site Chemist
Besar’s role combines science, compliance and operational support. His responsibilities include:
Chemical analysis of waste materials
Waste sampling and assessment
Supporting safe handling of chemical waste
Health and safety checks
Working with operational teams to make informed decisions
Maintaining technical records & documentation
Every assessment matters. Getting the detail right at the beginning helps protect people, ensure compliance and improve waste outcomes.
“There is far more behind waste management than people realise”
Besar first discovered the waste industry after being approached about an opportunity in the sector. Initially unsure, he quickly realised how much knowledge, regulation and problem-solving sits behind effective waste management.
“The idea of waste and recycling is fascinating. From the outside, people don’t realise how much legislation and technical understanding goes into managing waste. It brings together chemistry, environmental impact and the financi A typical day as a Site Chemistal benefits of recycling.”
The Axil difference: technical expertise with teamwork
For Besar, one of the things that stands out about Axil is the culture of teamwork, communication and critical thinking.
“You will consistently learn from others and others will consistently learn from you. Ask as many questions as you need. The more understanding you gain, the more you can contribute.”
At Axil, our technical teams work alongside operations, customers and specialists across the business to deliver safer, smarter and more sustainable waste solutions.
Because great waste management starts with understanding what you have.