Konica Minolta Australia has joined forces with Macquarie University and the Australia and New Zealand Recycling Platform’s (ANZRP) TechCollect program to launch the Rethink e-recycling Drive, an initiative aimed at reducing electronic waste going to landfill and promoting responsible recycling.
The program includes two free community drop-off events and a week-long e-waste collection at Macquarie University, offering residents and the university community accessible options to dispose of unwanted electronic devices, Konica said in a news release.
Andrew Bywaters, Senior Manager Facilities, Quality & Environment at Konica Minolta Australia, said the company views the initiative as part of its ongoing commitment to sustainability.
“Electronic waste is one of the fastest-growing waste streams in the world, and initiatives like this play an important role in keeping valuable materials out of landfill,” Bywaters said.
“At Konica Minolta Australia, sustainability and environmental responsibility are at the heart of how we operate. Partnering with Macquarie University and ANZRP lets us make e-waste recycling simple, accessible, and impactful for not just our business but our community.”
Macquarie University said it sees the drive as consistent with its broader sustainability efforts. “Sustainability is a core value at Macquarie University and initiatives such as public drop-off day and dedicated week-long e-waste collection bins empower our community to actively participate in recycling and resource recovery,” said Nicole Marchhart, Head of Sustainability at the University.
Marchhart added, “These efforts not only divert electronic waste from landfill but also demonstrate our ongoing commitment to environmental responsibility.”
E-waste collected through the initiative will be processed by ANZRP under its TechCollect program, which operates as a not-for-profit under the National Computer and Television Recycling Scheme.
ANZRP said recovered materials such as metals, plastics, and glass will be separated and reused in new products.
“Every device collected means fewer harmful materials in landfill and more resources recovered for reuse,” said Anne Stonier, Chief Marketing Communications and People Officer at ANZRP.
“Metals, plastics, and glass are separated and reprocessed, ready to be used again in new products – closing the loop and supporting the circular economy.”
The collection drive will include designated bins across Macquarie University’s campus from 15 to 19 September, and two drop-off events on 19 and 20 September. Accepted items include computers, tablets, monitors, printers, televisions, and related accessories.
Organisers said the effort provides businesses, students, and community members with a practical way to reduce environmental impact while supporting Australia’s circular economy.
