Sustainability

The NSW Return and Earn scheme has reached a major milestone, surpassing 13 billion drink containers returned through its network since the program’s inception. 

The Victorian Government has expanded its Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) with the introduction of a large Reverse Vending Machine (RVM) at Federation Square’s Russell Street Extension, making it easier for residents, workers, and visitors in Melbourne’s CBD to recycle bottles and containers.

Visy, Australia's largest integrated recycler and remanufacturer, has teamed up with seafood producer Tassal to introduce locally-made cardboard boxes for prawns, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional expanded polystyrene (EPS) packaging, which is hard to recycle and harmful to the environment.

The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) has announced its latest initiative to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) working in the recycling and circular economy sectors. 

The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) has intensified its efforts to decarbonise the aviation sector, announcing multiple initiatives focused on Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). 

Consultation is now open on New South Wales' first Protection of the Environment Policy (PEP) for Sustainable Construction, aimed at reducing carbon emissions and promoting the use of recycled materials in major public infrastructure projects, including hospitals, schools, and roads.

The Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO) has released its 2022-23 Australian Packaging Consumption and Recovery Data Report, presenting a detailed overview of the nation's progress toward achieving a circular economy for packaging. 

Clesana Australia has launched its first mobile water-free toilet with a welded sanitary bag system, aimed at reducing odour and eliminating direct handling of human waste. 

The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) has announced $14.1 million in funding for two projects under its Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) Funding Initiative aimed at reducing emissions in the aviation sector. 

Tamworth is set to gain a state-of-the-art Organics Recycling Facility (ORF) that aims to meet the region’s community and agricultural needs while aligning with New South Wales’ mandate to recycle organic material by 2030.