This week on Rubbish Talk, Alasdair is joined by Tina Jackson, founder of Comply Digital, Jackson Consultants, and the Technically Competent Managers (TCM) Forum, for a fascinating conversation about compliance, confidence, and building better collaboration across the waste sector.

Tina shares how she originally entered the industry through a commercial role in landfill and recycling after working in construction materials sales. Following a redundancy several years later, she unexpectedly found herself setting up her own consultancy business — something she admits was initially terrifying after spending 20 years employed. Five years on, the business has grown significantly, with Tina now supporting operators across the country through consultancy, TCM services and digital compliance systems.

A big focus of the episode is the development of Comply Digital, a platform designed to help operators and TCMs manage compliance, site inspections and environmental responsibilities all in one place. Tina explains how the idea originally started as a way to streamline TCM reporting, but quickly evolved into a wider operational tool that gives businesses better visibility across multiple sites — from compliance actions and complaints to monitoring schedules and training records.

The conversation also explores the growth of the TCM Forum, which Tina created after recognising a lack of shared knowledge and support within the sector. What started as an informal idea has grown into a network of more than 50 members, bringing together TCMs, environmental managers and operators to discuss legislation changes, consultations and industry challenges. Through the forum, members have even contributed feedback directly into discussions with the Environment Agency on permit and regulatory changes.

A key theme throughout the episode is the importance of collaboration and confidence. Tina reflects on how many people in the sector feel isolated or worry they should know everything, when in reality sharing knowledge and asking questions is one of the biggest strengths the industry can have. She also discusses the value of networking, site visits and creating spaces where people can openly discuss challenges without judgement.

The discussion naturally turns to some of the wider frustrations within waste management, particularly around inconsistency in regulation and enforcement. Tina and Alasdair both highlight how different interpretations and approaches across sites and regulators can create confusion, while poor enforcement of existing legislation continues to drive waste crime and bad practice.

Towards the end of the episode, Tina shares her advice for anyone entering the waste sector: jump in, learn as much as you can, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. As she explains, waste management is far more innovative and complex than many people realise — and once you’re in the industry, it’s very hard to leave.

A brilliant conversation covering compliance, collaboration, technology and confidence — and a reminder that the waste sector works best when knowledge is shared, not siloed.

Useful Links:

Jackson Consultants Website

Compli Digital Website