The company invited five graduates to come and work with the company, two of which, David Rodriguez and Alexandre Pignard, developed a closed loop system for the recycling of vinyl waste, considered a highly complex substrate to recycle.

HR manager Julie Bulmer said that the company has taken on board the proposal and the recycled PVC developed will be available to use later this year.

She said: "We really value the energy and fresh ideas that these highly educated people brought to the business and I am pleased it was such a success.

"Working alongside long-standing experienced staff is a powerful combination, ideal for new or tricky product development projects.  By having an internship scheme we get a new perspective and the student gets hands-on experience. I would encourage other businesses to do the same."

Elsewhere, Loughborough University graduate Natalie Clarke helped Duraweld develop a range of environmentally friendly products such as 100% recycled notepads and cardboard ring binders, which are in the final stages of testing and will be available to purchase via the Duraweld website before Christmas.

Canadian Graphic Arts graduate Lee Chapman spent six weeks developing sales literature for the company, while Brunel University graduate Natasha Francksen gained hands-on experience of working with the marketing department, focusing on online marketing and social media.