Inside Waste Dec 2020 by Prime Creative Media

www.insidewaste.com.au

ISSUE 99 | DEC/JAN 2021

The state CDS schemes move ahead but there is still ongoing tension around the design and control.

INSIDE 20 Future Directions 26 Inside Packaging 39 Circular Economy

Anatomy of a plastic packaging tax

CDS: the battle is over WHEN IN 2013, a Federal Court judge ruled that the Northern Territory’s container deposit scheme was illegal under Commonwealth law, the drawing up of the battlelines for the nation’s dominant Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) model began. Over the ensuing seven years, a struggle for the ideological and economic high-ground has played out within the industry. On one side was the model dependant on the beverage companies, which and is presently operational in South Australia, Queensland and more recently, Western Australia. While on the other, a split responsibility CDS with an independent network operator has been up and running in NSW since 2017.

Historical quirks

of Return-It which works with charity groups as part of the recycling collection system. He said that, as Australia’s largest operator of staffed depots, Return. It has been able to improve recycling outcomes by producing cleaner materials for remanufacturing, while creating thousands of new jobs.

Meaningful jobs “We’re really proud to be able to offer meaningful employment for Australians – particularly at a time like this, where we’ve seen job opportunities impacted by COVID. “And of course, this is a deposit scheme. We’re getting money back into the hands of people who recycle, along with seeing millions of dollars being raised to support local communities. Benefits like that are really maximised by Return-It – we work with local organisations and charities to ensure that each depot is tailor-made and serves its community. “By engaging with local organisations, Return-It is able to help customers raise much needed revenue, while delivering social and environmental benefits. (Continued on page 20)

Consultation on design However, there will be an exemption for producers and importers of small amounts of plastic packaging to mitigate against disproportionate administrative burdens in comparison to tax liability. This is a new tax that applies to plastic packaging produced in, or imported into, the UK, that does not contain at least 30 per cent recycled plastic. (Continued on page 22)

PP: 100024538

ISSN 1837-5618

In October, the balance appeared to fall in favour of the WARR industry when the Victorian government endorsed a split responsibility CDS model. That state, considered the country’s recycling leader, has since put its model to the public for consideration. WMRR chair and chief development officer at Re.Group, Garth Lamb told Inside Waste that for decades he

watched as the “battle” played out between green groups who wanted to see SA-style programs roll out nationally, and a beverage lobby that framed the programs as too expensive. “That battle is now over – the community absolutely wants CDS - but there is still some ongoing tension around scheme design and control. There are some historical quirks that also need to be fixed. “For example, people are rightly confused when their glass beer bottle is eligible, but their glass wine bottle isn’t. All beverage suppliers should be equally involved; getting wine into CDS is an obvious issue, because it causes so much confusion for people at the start of a new scheme,” he explained. Lamb said he believes that the participation of all the jurisdictions will deliver a national network of takeback facilities. “Then we should look at all the other products we could better recover through this network than we can through kerbside bins. In other jurisdictions, many operators expand the range of products they will accept over time,” he added. Lamb’s company is also the operator

AS AUSTRALIA welcomes the country’s first-ever waste legislation, the UK continues to outpace us with its imminent legislation for a new plastic packaging tax to take effect from April 2022. It is expected that this tax could have the most impact on the waste and recycling sector since the landfill tax was introduced, as it brings in indirect taxation, rather than just the Packaging Recovery Note system (a type of document that provides evidence waste packaging material has been recycled into a new product) to boost recycling. HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has published details of the draft legislation which will affect UK producers of plastic packaging, importers of plastic packaging, business customers of producers and importers of plastic packaging, and consumers who buy goods in plastic packaging in the UK.

Low wear. Low maintenance. Low running costs. Maximum performance. Versatile, world-class shredding. Contact us for a free waste audit: info@focusenviro.com.au

TERMINATOR

SINGLE-SHAFT SHREDDER

READY FOR ANYTHING

The Komptech Terminator is a low-speed, high-torque single-shaft industrial shredder designed to process nearly all types of difficult waste, including heavy C&D debris, bulky waste, white goods, mattresses, tires and municipal solid waste.

TYRES

MATTRESSES & BULKY WASTE

CARPET

MUNICIPAL SOLID WASTE

HEAVY C&D

WHITE GOODS

ASK US ABOUT OUR SPECIAL FINANCE OFFER FOR THE TERMINATOR 6000S.

1300 352 378 komptechcea.com.au

CR AM BO DUAL-SHAFT SHREDDER

BUILT TO BE AGGRESSIVE

The Komptech Crambo is a low-speed, high-torque dual-shaft industrial shredder engineered to deliver high throughput shredding of the toughest wood waste and organic waste materials, including stumps and logs, green waste, food waste, palm, railroad ties, and heavy rigid plastic.

STUMPS & LOGS

GREEN WASTE

FOOD WASTE

PALM

RAILWAY TIES

HEAVY RIGID PLASTIC

ASK US ABOUT OUR SPECIAL FINANCE OFFER FOR THE CRAMBO 5200.

1300 352 378 komptechcea.com.au

Editor’s Note //

An extraordinary year in review

Trusted Advisors in Property, Environment, Planning, Waste & Local Government Law Experts in all areas of waste including: DAs and Land & Environment Court Appeals EPA Investigations & Prosecutions Waste Contracts Operational Issues & Waste Legislation Waste Transportation Asbestos Issues

AFTER A YEAR dominated by COVID, it would be easy to forget the amazing accomplishments of the WARR industry. So I want to take the opportunity to reflect on what the industry has achieved this year. In January, waste levies waived for NSW and Vic residents in bushfire affected areas while Containers for Change became WA CDS scheme operator. February saw the Pact Group, Cleanaway Waste Management and Asahi Beverages develop a plastic pelletising facility.During March the first-ever National Plastic Summit was introduced and by April, COAG made history with its Waste Response Strategy of export bans of plastic, paper, tyres and glass waste between July 2020 and December 2024.In May, 10,000 NSW residents, WARR bodies and councils made submissions to the 20 Year Waste Strategy while in June, Victoria’s used tyre collections contracted by 50 per cent.The month of July saw the $191 million Recycling Modernisation Fund and revision of the Product Stewardship legislation passed and, in August

the federal government pledged $4 million for an independent body to drive food waste reduction.In September, the ACCC authorised an industry-led Battery Stewardship Scheme and a group of Sydney metropolitan councils united to recycle 100 million glass containers into local roads through the largest local government-led procurement of recycled road-making materials in NSW history. In October, a Federal Government Product Stewardship Centre of Excellence arrived. November saw Victoria release its proposed CDS model and invite public consultation and by December, an independent Food Waste body was formed, and Australia’s first Recycling and Waste Reduction Bill moved from the Senate into the House of Representative for final debate. With so many people saying they are happy to say good-bye to 2020, I’d like to say that being able to report on these developments, and getting to know the amazing people in this industry, has made this year one of the best I’ve had.

Contact one of our advisors now: 02 9929 3031 or waste@honeslawyers.com.au

Publisher Christine Clancy christine.clancy@primecreative.com.au

Subscriptions +61 3 9690 8766 subscriptions@primecreative.com.au

or find out more at: www.honeslawyers.com.au/what-we-do/waste/

General Manager (Sydney) Terry Wogan terry.wogan@primecreative.com.au

Inside Waste is available by subscription from the publisher. The rights of refusal are reserved by the publisher

Group Managing Editor (Northern) Syed Shah syed.shah@primecreative.com.au

Articles All articles submitted for publication become the property of the publisher. The Editor reserves the right to adjust any article to conform with the magazine format.

Editor Claire Moffat claire.moffat@primecreative.com.au

Copyright Inside Waste is owned by Prime Creative Media and published by John Murphy. All material in Inside Waste is copyright and no part may be reproduced or Design Production Manager copied in any form or by any means Michelle Weston (graphic, electronic or mechanical michelle.weston@primecreative.com.au including information and retrieval systems) without written permission of Design Blake Storey, Kerry Pert, Madeline McCarty the publisher. The Editor welcomes contributions but reserves the right to Client Success Manager accept or reject any material. While Justine Nardone every effort has been made to ensure the justine.nardone@primecreative.com.au accuracy of information, Prime Creative Media will not accept responsibility for Head Office errors or omissions or for any Prime Creative Pty Ltd consequences arising from reliance on 11-15 Buckhurst Street information published. The opinions South Melbourne VIC 3205 Australia expressed in Inside Waste are not p: +61 3 9690 8766 necessarily the opinions of, or endorsed enquiries@primecreative.com.au by the publisher unless otherwise stated. www.insidewaste.com.au Business Development Manager Chelsea Daniels chelsea.daniels@primecreative.com.au

INSIDEWASTE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021

Daily news updates at www.insidewaste.com.au

News //

Profile | Waste Recycling Industry Association Queensland CEO, Mark Smith 1. What was your first role/job involving waste and resource recovery? I think it would have been Clean Up Australia Day back in my Cub Scout days and a few volunteer gigs here and there. But if we mean paid work, then it was starting a job in the illegal dumping strike force at EPA Victoria, where we worked on waste crime issues throughout the state. 2. What’s your favourite part of your role at WRIQ I’m energised by the interest our sector is receiving and believe we are on the cusp of great things. With the right market interventions and a collaborative approach between industry and government, Queensland is poised to be Australia’s most efficient and effective waste and resource recovery market. 3. How has WRIQ changed since you become involved? We’ve expanded our digital programs and embraced new ways of working and connecting with stakeholders. This includes expanding our social media presence and freshening up our monthly communications. We’ll also be looking closely at how we can support our members to make strategic decisions and capitalise on the opportunities of 2021. 4. What are some of your achievements that you are most proud? The launch of our National Intern Program is huge for the sector. The program will help shape the waste and resource recovery leaders of tomorrow. And also foster leadership skills in current employees, as mentorship provides great training for staff that will eventually occupy management positions. The difference with the WRIQ Intern Program is the collective effort we’re creating and documenting. It’s vital our sector talks more about all great things we are doing.

NO DOWNTIME FLOORING Heavy duty floor topping & repair system for waste handling sites > Leachate Resistant > Industrial Strength > High Impact Rating > Rapid Cure Times > Joint Repairs Call us for more information

AS/NZS 4801

Australian Circular Economy Hub comes to life AN OVERWHELMING 88 per cent of Australian business leaders believe the circular economy will be important to the future of business, according to new research from Planet Ark. Titled ‘Circularity in Australian Business 2020’, the research report measures how Australian businesses are tracking in their understanding and implementation of the circular economy. Planet Ark surveyed business decision makers to assess circular economy progress in Australia ahead of the launch of its newest program — the Australian Circular Economy Hub (ACE Hub) — which aims to fast-track our nation’s transition to a circular economy. The ACE Hub has been funded by $1.6 million investment through the Environment Restoration Fund.

Community understands

02 8840 8888

enquiries@ascoatings.com.au | www.ascoatings.com.au

INSIDEWASTE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021

According to Planet Ark CEO Paul Klymenko, “Our research clearly shows the Australian business community understands the need to transition towards a circular economy and the opportunity it represents.

“We are incredibly proud to be launching the ACE Hub to facilitate and accelerate this transition and excited to continue evolving the platform to meet the needs of our circular economy community as it grows.”

Tiny global footprint The 2020 Circularity Gap Report (CGR), a global assessment of circular economy progress produced by Circle Economy, states the world is currently just 8.6 per cent circular. This is despite the benefits a circular economy, which by 2048 is estimated to rise to a present value of $210 billion in GDP while also providing an additional 17,000 full-time equivalent jobs. Planet Ark’s research found that 58 per cent of business decision leaders said they were very or extremely knowledgeable about the circular economy, only 42 per cent identified that a circular economy is designed to ensure regenerative processes and products. 46 per cent incorrectly defined the concept as being only related to recycling or removing waste from the supply chain. iw

Daily news updates at www.insidewaste.com.au

// News

Victoria boosted with Circular Economy Business Innovation Centre VICTORIA now boasts a $7 million Circular Economy Business Innovation Centre with an initial focus on reducing food and organic waste. This work will build off Sustainability Victoria’s Love Food Hate Waste program that has helped reduce the 250,000 tonnes of edible food that is thrown away by households each year – enough to fill Melbourne’s Eureka Tower. Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio said the Centre will work with a variety of businesse, from farms and cafes to factories and appliance shops – to streamline the way they operate, reduce waste, and improve efficiency. “It will spark innovation and help to make sustainable changes and reduce waste,”she said.

Expert advice The centre will do research and offer expert advice and resources through a virtual hub, facilitate collaboration and

Profile | Mandalay Technologies Mandalay is a leader in data collection, information control and management.

events, and offer grants and support for businesses. To mark the launch of the centre, the first round of the $10 million Recycling Victoria Business Support Fund was opened. The fund will help businesses, industry groups and not-for-profit organisations to improve resource efficiency, reduce waste to landfill, increase recycling and reduce their operating costs. Meanwhile, the first round of the $3 million Recycling Victoria Innovation Fund has also opened. This will support partnerships between businesses, industry groups, research institutions, community groups and charities to identify, develop and scale-up more sustainable opportunities and business models. The centre is part of Recycling Victoria – the Government’s action plan and investment of more than $300 million to transform the state’s recycling sector, create thousands of jobs and set Victoria up for a more sustainable future. iw

When was Mandalay Technologies founded and why? Mandalay started business as as Weighmaster,a weighbridge software company in 1996. The company was formed around a team of technicians who built products to meet functional requirements. A merger delivered a new brand ‘Mandalay Technologies’ with an expanded scope of services and enhanced offering. Through listening to our customers’ needs, our Australian based development team continues to invest in technology, up to $1.5 million per year over the last decade. This commitment has seen the evolution from weighbridge software, to data management and data insights. What are the key services that Mandalay offers? Mandalay’s product offering includes a unique collection of solutions that

manage data, business intelligence and data synchronisation. Whether a customer has single or multiple facilities, Mandalay offers an environment that centralises applications and data. Providing improved accessibility, functionality, reliability and reporting capability. What are some of Mandalay’s plans and ambitions for the next 12-18 months? Continuing to research and investigate global trends and identify what is relevant to the Australian market and driving product development beyond the weighbridge. The Resident Product Suite including Voucher Management, Resident Self Service, Resident Remote Access and Bulk Waste Collection is the start of the next approach to waste and recycling data management and offers an exciting roadmap ahead.

The first round of the Recycling Victoria Innovation Fund has started.

Southern Oil Collection Pty Ltd undertakes to fund projects following transportation and storage of contaminated oil in Sydney Southern Oil Collection Pty Ltd (SOC) has entered into an enforceable undertaking with the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) following the transportation of contaminated oil which the EPA alleges is in breach of the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997. SOC stored oil contaminated with polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in Gosford West and Seven Hills, and caused transportation of the oil between these sites and to a third party site. PCBs are toxic, highly persistent, and bio accumulative. Some of the contaminated oil was transported to a third party where it was later found to be used for heating purposes. The enforceable undertaking requires SOC to contribute $200,000 towards the Local Streams, Local Communities project managed by Landcare NSW and Greater Sydney Landcare Network. SOC has also committed to funding development of an industry guideline on managing PCB-contaminated oil. SOC has published this notice in accordance with the enforceable undertaking.

Daily news updates at www.insidewaste.com.au

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021 INSIDEWASTE

News //

vertical shredders. Built tough for the most demanding of shredding applications. CIR

FOR MON

C LAR E ONO MY

E LU

AVY DUTY HE

Government moves closer to procurement of recycled material THE AUSTRALIAN Government will soon release a revised Sustainable Procurement Guide and updated Commonwealth Procurement Rules so that every one of its near 100 agencies must consider buying recycled. This was initially flagged by the Prime Minister at the National Plastics Summit in March. Assistant Minister for Waste Reduction and Environmental Management, Trevor Evans, advised of the impending release while giving his support to a new report to help increase government procurement of recycled content. Badged Supporting government procurement of recycled materials, the report is a critical component of Australia’s work to deliver the 2025 National Packaging Targets. Published by the Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO) it sets out the practical challenges that procurement managers face at each step of the procurement process and outlines a series of strategies to overcome them. The report has been developed specifically for local governments, government agencies and businesses seeking to supply materials to governments, the publication draws on in-depth consultation with local government associations and state government agencies.

Roadblocks

• Aggressive size reduction and densification of preshredded materials • Clean, high bulk density output for easy sorting and transportation • C&D waste, scrap metal and other heavy duty applications • Available with up to 440kW of power • Industry-proven and built tough for Australian conditions

Phone: 03 9706 8066 Email: sales@appliedmachinery.com.au

INSIDEWASTE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021

Practical roadblocks that the report addresses include how procurement managers can access detailed and reliable information on products and materials, including technical product information, local availability, standards, lifecycle impacts and sustainability/recycled content certifications. It then details the range of resources and tools available on the market, including the new Australian Circular Economy Hub platform, which is set to launch in November 2020. The procurement supply chain is also examined along with the exclusive challenges faced by procurement managers and the businesses supplying to them, and how interventions at the planning, sourcing and contract management phases could help overcome them. The report looks at the vital importance of establishing a business case for recycled content,

Assistant Minister for Waste Reduction and Environmental Management, Trevor Evans has stated that the Sustainable Procurement Guide will see Australia become a recycling powerhouse.

documenting how to clearly demonstrate the economic rationale to key decision makers. This includes the direct benefits of recycled content (material quality, costs and return on investment) as well as the broader positive impacts for local economies, including local and regional waste solutions and regional employment.

Breaking down barriers According to APCO CEO Brooke Donnelly, “Government procurement of recycled content will play an important role in Australia’s ability to meet the 2025 National Packaging Targets. We developed this report to help Australia realise this potential. By providing procurement professionals and the businesses aspiring to supply to them with a clear outline of the challenges in the system, we hope this report will start breaking down some of the barriers and start building capability and skill where it’s most needed”. “When we do buy goods and services that contain or use recycled materials, we reduce the amount of waste resources sent to landfill, repurpose the valuable energy and materials used to make those resources and reinvest that value by converting our waste resources into new products. This is the circular economy in action,” Evans added. “In the decade ahead, I want to see Australia become a recycling powerhouse, exporting our recycling know-how and innovations to the world, not our waste. Everyone – governments of all levels, industry and consumers – has a role to play in making sure that this happens in Australia.” iw

Daily news updates at www.insidewaste.com.au

// News

Chemistry Australia and CSIRO unite to end plastic waste CHEMISTRY AUSTRALIA and its Plastics Stewardship Australia initiative have partnered with CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, to transform plastic waste in Australia. The CSIRO’s Plastic Mission is leveraging science and technology to inform and develop a range of solutions to prevent plastic waste entering our environment, while transform the way we use, re-use and recycle end of life plastics. Chemistry Australia director of Strategy, Energy and Research, Peter Bury, said the Association and its members from across the plastics raw material industry, packaging industry and broader supply chain Considered the partnership an opportunity for strategic, national collaboration. “As an industry, we support the sustainable use and recovery of plastics and we are keen to contribute our capability in polymer science, engineering, manufacturing and market development to the solutions developed through CSIRO’s Plastics Mission.”

Plastics Stewardship Australia, an initiative of Chemistry Australia, has been established to support the sustainable use and recovery of plastics.

Collaborative partnerships critical CSIRO Principal Research Scientist Dr Denise Hardesty said collaborative partnerships across the plastics supply chain will be critical to the success of the Mission. “Working together with Chemistry Australia on initiatives to support the sustainable use and recovery of plastics

Daily news updates at www.insidewaste.com.au

is central to our Mission tackling one of Australia’s greatest challenges, and we are excited about growing this Mission together,” she said.

Plastics Stewardship Australia Plastics Stewardship Australia, an initiative of Chemistry Australia, has been established to

support the sustainable use and recovery of plastics. Chemistry Australia represents plastics raw material producers, importers, distributors, processors and manufacturers, compounders, recyclers and research organisations. Members of Plastics Stewardship Australia include 3M Australia, BASF Australia, Dow Australia, General Polymers, LyondellBasell Australia, Qenos and SUEZ Recycling and Recovery. Plastics Stewardship Australia has stated that it will promote the sustainable use and recovery of plastic resources by: • Helping designers and manufacturers use plastics to achieve United Nations Sustainability Goals; • Strengthening uptake of Operation Clean Sweep to keep plastic pellets out of our oceans and waterways; • Supporting increased recovery of plastic products at end of life; and • Providing knowledge, information and resources on the new Plastics Stewardship Australia. iw

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021 INSIDEWASTE

News //

Report shows spike in COVID food waste THE 2020 Food Waste Report by Rabobank illustrates that the Coronavirus pandemic has derailed Australia’s progress in reducing food waste, leading to a spike in the amount of food Australian households are throwing out. This year, Rabobank surveyed Australians in March and again in September, finding that food waste increased significantly after the onset of the pandemic as people focused on keeping safe at home, spending more time cooking (46 per cent), experimenting with recipes (37 per cent) and ordering food delivery services (23 per cent). The research shows that Australians were making positive inroads to reducing food waste before the pandemic hit, with food wastage dropping almost two percentage points from an average of 12.9 per cent of food purchased in 2019 to 11.1 per cent in early 2020. The latest September results show a lapse in progress, with Aussies’ annual

The average household wastes nearly 13 per cent of groceries they buy.

food waste creeping back up during the pandemic, with the average household now wasting 12.7 per cent of the food they buy, totalling $10.3 billion nationally. The dollar value of food waste also hit an all-time high, reaching $1,043 per year per household, reflecting a greater weekly food spend during lockdown months. Rabobank Australia head of client experience Glenn Wealands said it was expected that food waste would be de-prioritised by Australians during this stressful year when our attention has been focused on other urgent issues. “We were making headway in terms of minimising food waste before we faced this pandemic, however, our research shows we’ve headed off track. The average household is now wasting nearly 13 per cent of the groceries they buy and also spending more on food delivery and self-prepare food services. We’ve also seen almost 10 per cent of

TOMORROW’S SOLUTIONS. TODAY

INSIDEWASTE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021

Daily news updates at www.insidewaste.com.au

// News

households increasing their spend on food to stockpile items in case supply ran out during lockdown,” he said.

Delivery services soar The findings also spotlighted that there was an increase in the number of people using food delivery services in 2020, rising from 54 per cent pre-pandemic to 61 per cent currently, with more people using these services at least once a week (23 per cent, which is up 9 per cent from pre-pandemic). As dining out took a hit, Australians have also increasingly turned to self-prepare ‘meal-kit’ food services, from 28 per cent pre-pandemic to 36 per cent currently. While food delivery and ‘meal kits’ have offered a welcomed release for many from the monotony of cooking every evening, the research shows a worrying correlation between uptake of these services and increased food waste; those most likely to use these services also waste over double the amount of food when compared to those who don’t. “This is a real watch out for consumers,” Wealands added, “We

The majority (77 percent) of Australians care about reducing waste.

note through the research that consumers are working harder than ever to keep their finances in check, so it’s especially important for those who order pre-prepared meals, to be mindful that unless the services are used wisely, it’s bad for the wallet and bad for reducing food waste.” The research shows that the majority (77 percent) of Australians care about reducing waste, with 78 per cent annoyed when they see food wasted and 64 per cent wanting

people to think about the impact on the environment. However, only a small group is concerned with the connection between food waste and wider environmental impacts such as climate change (24 per cent), the loss of animals/extinction (21 per cent), water shortages (16 per cent) and pollution (12 per cent). “Aussies clearly care about reducing their food waste, but we all need to understand that the impact is far

greater than just hip-pocket savings. It’s our collective responsibility to make changes and start to minimise waste across the entire food supply chain,” Wealands said. “There are some inspiring innovations going on at all stages of food production from farmers to manufacturers, retailers and at a government level. If we all do our bit, we can have a huge impact on the amount of food wasted and create a more sustainable future.” iw

OVERVIEW 13 Keates Road

UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY

NEWLY ESTABLISHED RECYCLING BUSINESS AND PROPERTY FOR SALE ARMADALE, WESTERN AUSTRALIA • License issued by Government of Western Australia (DWER) for Category 12: the screening etc of material. Category 13: Crushing of building material. Category 62: Solid waste depot. (The license allows combined tonnage of 100,000 tons of Category 12 & 13 and Category 62) • The business is fully equipped with modern equipment and vehicle and will be sold a going concern • This property and the business will be sold as a combined package by private treaty. Purchasing of the business and equipment Leasing of the property and royalty for the DWER license could be considered as an option • Information Memorandum available on request

John Perrett Focus West Property M: 0466 081 118 E: john@focuswestproperty.com.au

Daily news updates at www.insidewaste.com.au

• 1,190 sqm* of high truss processing warehouse (new build completed in October 2019) • 3,483 sqm * of land area • 70 sqm* Office area • Development budget of $2,000,000 • Certificate of Title P057226 Lot 254 • Entire land area is paved • Secure fencing and gate on perimeters • The property is connected to electricity, mains water and deep sewer. • Good access from South Western Highway & Tonkin Highway

The Business Details:

DWER LICENSE combined tonnage of 100,000 tons of Category 12 & 13 and Category 62 • Equipment: Case 621 D Loader. Hitachi 13.5 ton Excavator with rock breaker Portafill 7000 Impact Crusher Portafill 3000 3 x deck screen Isuzu 1400 Truck with bin lift 26 Assorted skip bins New Holland 5 ton Excavator • Staff: Site manager Normally 3 on site per shift • Stock value: Monthly of incoming stock currently @$40,000.00 (approx)

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021 INSIDEWASTE

News //

How TexBack PVC composite recycling scheme benefits from NPSIF THE VINYL COUNCIL OF AUSTRALIA (VCA) and its project partner Specialised Textiles Association (STA) have secured Government grant funding of nearly $350,000 to further research into the recycling of waste PVC and polyester (PES) composite textile products in Australia. The TexBack project is one of the 15 successful grant applications (out of a total 190 submissions) to receive $349,850 from the National Product Stewardship Investment Fund (NPSIF). The Government’s funding program was launched to promote and stimulate shared action for everyday products with a focus on working to reduce waste generation and increased resource recovery. TexBack is an industry-driven initiative which aims to steward polyvinyl chloride (PVC)-polyester (PES) composite textile products and waste which are currently not recovered in Australia.

Range of activities The Federal Government’s grant will fund the development of the

The grants will cover textiles such as grain covers, tarpaulins, advertising banners, tents and marquees, roofing and grounds sheets, truck tarps, marine fabrics, swimming pool liners and upholstery fabrics.

business case for a national product stewardship scheme for textiles such as grain covers, tarpaulins, advertising banners, tents and marquees, roofing and grounds sheets, truck tarps, marine fabrics, swimming pool liners and upholstery fabrics. The project covers a range of activities, including testing of a new chemical separation technology, that will enable the

specialised textiles and vinyl sectors to address the growing concerns of waste ending up in landfill. The NPSIF has projected 1.5 million tonnes of waste to be diverted from landfill through the initiative and will further boost the economy by creating more than 560 potential jobs. Developing a uniquely Australian solution will pave the way for the

establishment of a new, industryled product stewardship scheme that recovers a complex local waste stream, reprocesses it within Australia and supports the local manufacture of an innovative recycled content PVC building product being developed here, with export market potential. Local markets for recovered polyester will also be sought. Welcoming the grant, the Vinyl Council of Australia’s PVC stewardship manager, Jan van de Graaff said that TexBack would build on earlier VCA-led research into potential recycling options of PVC coated fabrics conducted over the past four years. “This grant now gives VCA and STA a real opportunity to collaborate to engage the textile sector in developing a viable scheme for recovery and reprocessing of this waste stream; particularly as there is a potential end-use for the material that will lead to manufacturing of a completely new durable building product in Australia.” iw

Inside Waste News & Networking twitter.com/InsideWaste

UNLOCK A WORLD OF INSIGHT AND OPPORTUNITY BY SUBSCRIBING TO INSIDE WASTE PREMIUM LIMITED TIME OFFER Sign up for a trial to unlock all Inside Waste premium stories for a month Corporate subscription

$445

5 members

$595

10 members

Individual subscription

$295

SUBSCRIBE NOW at subscriptions@primecreative.com.au or visit www.insidewaste.com.au/subscribe

INSIDEWASTE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021

Daily news updates at www.insidewaste.com.au

// News

APCO Board refreshes THE 2021 Board of Directors for the Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO) includes leaders from the waste and recycling, packaging, food and beverage, and sustainability sectors. The new Board Directors were officially appointed at the Annual General Meeting, which took place virtually. The two new directors are Richard Smith, director safety, quality and sustainability at Amcor, who will take up the position of Industry Association director for a term of three years. He replaces board member Keith Chessell. “I greatly appreciate the opportunity to join the APCO Board. It’s a privilege to contribute to the important work undertaken by APCO with all industry stakeholders to ensure the sustainability and circularity of packaging in Australia and the region,” Smith said.

Brand Owner director Also joining the Board in the role of Brand Owner director is Kylie Freeland, director of supply chain and sustainability, McDonalds Australia, for

The full APCO 2021 Board remains committed to implementing commercially sustainable solutions.

a period of three years. “I feel privileged to be joining a leading team of directors with a shared passion and experience for developing and implementing commercially responsible sustainable solutions. I look forward to working with the Board to help make a genuine and positive difference across industries,” Freeland said. APCO chair, Sam Andersen thanked the outgoing directors, particularly longstanding director Jacky Nordsvan and Nestlé.

“Jacky has been an invaluable contributor to our Board and a staunch supporter of APCO, generously sharing her vast knowledge and experience for the benefit of all APCO Members over the last six years. “Keith Chessell has also been a committed and experienced packaging professional; it has been a delight to work with Keith on the APCO Board. Jacky and Keith are not lost to our APCO family and remain active contributors through working groups and committees”.

“It has been an absolute privilege and honour to serve on the APCO Board and be part of the transformation of APCO and its leadership into the organisation it is today. A huge congratulations to the incoming Directors, I have no doubt you will support APCO and its Members in delivering the 2025 National Packaging Targets and beyond. It is definitely not farewell, as I will continue to support the APCO team and its Members in my role on the Technical Advisory Committee and working groups,” Outgoing board director, Jacky Nordsvan, head of packaging , Nestlé Oceania commented. Keith Chessell said that although he will miss the involvement at the board level, he would continue to play an active part in supporting APCO’s activities via the Technical Advisory Committee, Working Groups, and educational programs. The full 2021 Board includes Sam Andersen (chair), Andrew Petersen, Richard Smith, Lee Smith, Anne Astin, Trent Bartlett, Jason Goode, Chris Foley and Kylie Freeland. iw

WE MOVE YOUR WORLD TIPPING

HANDLING

LIFTING

COMPACTING

H Y VA PA C I F I C

HSR SOUTHERN CROSS

72 GLENWOOD DRIVE, THORNTON NSW 2322

35 HOLBECHE RD, ARNDELL PARK NSW 2148

(02) 4966 3777 WWW.HYVA.COM

1300 HYVA LIFT (1300 4982 5438) WWW.HSRSX.COM.AU

Daily news updates at www.insidewaste.com.au

www.hyva.com

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021 INSIDEWASTE

News //

AWRE takes a close look at waste and COVID shows that we must not stop with it,” she explained. The biggest learning curve during COVID occurred with people at home understanding which bin to use when, especially when it came to disposing of PPE and disposable masks.

The FOGO plan

COVID has seen a 15-20 per cent increase in the domestic generation of general garbage, green waste and recyclables.

THE OPENING session of the Australian Waste and Recycling Exhibition (AWRE) asked, “Can waste and recycling successfully minimise the negative effects COVID-19?” The panellists were Waste Contractors & Recyclers Association of NSW executive director Tony Khoury, Local Government NSW President Linda Scott, Veolia Head of Solid Waste Transport Jim Perry and MRA Consulting Group managing director Mike Ritchie. Participants were told that globally, the waste and recycling industry has been hit hard by the pandemic. El Paso was forced to stop all curbside recycling efforts as their workforce shrunk significantly. Consumer preference trends are now expected to shift towards fast, affordable, easily accessible and safe options. Yet, despite COVID, waste and recycling continue in Australia. This session explored its far-reaching effects, successful real-world solutions and key takeaways from industry leaders.

The impacts of COVID on the waste and recycling industry The speakers said that the impacts of COVID were not exempt for the waste and recycling industry. The overnight stop to many businesses, specifically the hospitality industry, saw an immediate 20 per cent reduction in commercial waste collection, according to Ritchie, while Perry stated that he consequently saw a 20 per cent reduction in commercial revenue nationally within weeks of the pandemic hitting. Conversely, COVID has seen a 15-20 per cent increase in the domestic generation of general garbage, green waste and recyclables as people became house-bound. As a result, this also saw an influx of organised curbside collections 14

according to Scott, as people used this time at home to de-clutter and take advantage of reducing household items. She commended residents of NSW for knowing the appropriate way to get rid of these items, however, also expressed her concerns that “education is an ongoing necessity” with a 34 per cent increase in illegal dumpings from April 2019 to April 2020.

With more people working from home during this time, more residential FOGO has been produced. When asked how to get more councils to embrace FOGO separation while there are varied approaches to managing waste across the country, the response was strong. According to Scott, it all comes back to the local government. While there are different approaches to managing FOGO depending on the geographical location, she noted that “any plan is better than none” and that aligning policies from a state-level would help the process dramatically. She continued by saying that there needs to be a lot more investment in

this area for it to be a success across the board. However, she praised the councils and areas that have already implemented strategies to overcome this.

What’s next and learnings from COVID For the industry, the biggest learnings from COVID were varied among the panellists. From an industry perspective, Ritchie highlighted that the lack of disaster plans for most of the country when it comes to waste and recycling during a time a crisis needed to be addressed. He continued by stating that future planning and preparation needs to be done around having a flexible plan in place for the day-today operation of the industry, “when state borders shut down, the industry wasn’t overly prepared”. On a more personal note, Perry said that the biggest learning for him was truly operating with staff and the general public with health and safety at the forefront, “I will never take that for granted again”. iw

Infrastructure funding and the 20-year plan When asked about the NSW government’s 20-year waste strategy, heavy emphasis was placed on the need to act ‘now’. Ritchie stressed that “we need a clear plan asap”. With international waste exports now banned by the federal government, the 20-year plan is more important than ever. All panellists agreed that the waste levy should be redirected into desperately needed infrastructure that is going to be able to process our growing waste levels here in Australia, before it becomes a much bigger issue. “We need to build 5 billion dollars worth of infrastructure in the next 10 years, this is going to create tens of thousands of jobs. There is no better time to do so,” Ritchie said.

The continued importance of waste education COVID-19 has been a fair indicator of where the gaps in waste and recycling education lies. With rules and regulations consistently changing, the need for ongoing education is key to ensuring the future of the waste sector is successful. Scott highlighted that we are now seeing an increase in contaminated waste in our bins and it all comes back to user education. “Education during these times has been challenging but it really

INSIDEWASTE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021

INVITING COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT

NEW PATENTED RED MUD PRO ESSIN SOLUTIONS

- TWO PATENTS AVAILABLE LEARN MORE REDMUDPROCESSING.WORDPRESS.COM Daily news updates at www.insidewaste.com.au

// News

TSA: striving for real world outcomes for tyre derived products THE 2019/20 Annual report from Tyre Stewardship Australia (TSA) shares the wins, challenges and the vision of the industry funded product stewardship organisation that has a new feel and re-invigorated focus to it. TSA CEO Lina Goodman explained that the organisation’s vision had not changed fundamentally: it will continue to strive for the transformation of endof-life tyres into a valuable commodity, sought by ethical players for their profits but also for the common interest of society. She added that, despite the substantial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, some encouraging outcomes were achieved. “Waste does not stop. That means our approach to sustainably managing end of life tyres cannot stop.” Wins included: • A commitment of more than $2.3 million in market development funding, making a total of more than $6m committed by TSA since its inception to projects that are demonstrating how waste tyres can be utilised in alternate uses.

• P artnering with auto brands Volkswagen Australia and Porsche Cars Australia – the first auto brands to join the Scheme. • The establishment of a global-first Foreign End Market Verification Program for ensuring export material sent for reprocessing does not cause environmental or social harm. • The completion of the Used Tyres Supply Chain and Fate Analysis – the most comprehensive report to date on used tyres – which has become the national blueprint in understanding the true data associated with resource recovery; and • The establishment of a Whole Tyre Export Ban Baling transition program to help organisations to connect directly with relevant state authorities to navigate through approvals and growth opportunities ahead of the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) ban on whole tyres, included baled tyres, from December 2021.

Significant challenge End-of-life tyres represent a significant challenge in regional and remote

Australia and local governments play a crucial role in the solution, which is why the increase of more than 15 per cent in local government authorities joining the Scheme was another key outcome for the 2019/20 financial year for TSA. “Local government participation is a vital step in terms of delivering the benefits of full lifecycle management of used tyres,” Goodman explained. “Benefits include appropriate procurement and waste management of fleet tyres, to the specification of innovative tyre-derived products for improved asset delivery and management.” However, Goodman acknowledged while significant progress had been made, she was “well aware of the challenges that remain unresolved and the shortcomings that still influence (TSA’s) course. “If you are not engaged with us and remain happy to reap the profits offered by the tyre industry, I want to remind you that time available to you for making a voluntary and positive impact is rapidly running out and that

society will offer you fewer and fewer acceptable excuses for sitting on your fence,” she warned. TSA has also taken the opportunity to extend the study of Materials Flow Assessment of the tyre industry to cover the mining sector with an assessment of the consumption and fate of mining industry OffThe-Road tyres. Since the release of that report, TSA has begun working with a group of Western Australian mining organisations to gain a better understanding of what is required to achieve better recovery rates of OTR tyres in the industry. While encouraging assistance from mining corporations, Goodman noted that earth moving tyre companies must take a proactive stance. “With only an 11 per cent recovery rate for this sector, the time to implement solutions is now. We really need to see earth moving tyre companies participate in the Tyre Product Stewardship Scheme and contribute as their passenger tyre counterparts have been doing,” she explained. iw

FOR ALL YOUR FOGO PROCESSING REQUIREMENTS 35 years international experience, call us to discuss your project FABCOM In Vessel FOGO Tunnels FABCOM MAF Compost System Quality Assurance Compost Quality Odour Control Contaminant Management Organic Certification R&D for your Plant/Process Wireless Process Control

FABCOM® Organics Under Control© www.FAB-COM.com.au

Daily news updates at www.insidewaste.com.au

Email: info@spartel.com.au Web: www.FAB-COM.com.au Mobile: Harrie - 0414 37 66 99 Mike - 0406 533 503

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021 INSIDEWASTE

News //

Product Stewardship grants deliver new allies IMAGINE 200 billion chocolate wrappers being recycled. That’s how much soft plastic packaging will be processed under just one of the proposals funded through the Federal Government’s National Product Stewardship Investment Fund (NPSIF). A total of 15 projects have been funded from the $10.5 million scheme which saw the extraordinary response of a six-times oversubscribed rate.

Food and Grocery Council A grant to the Australian Food and Grocery Council (AFGC) will also bring the food and grocery supply chain together for the first time to tackle the problem of hard to recycle consumer plastics. Minister for the Environment, Sussan Ley said the AFGC-led scheme is a positive outcome from the first National Plastics Summit held earlier this year. “We have made it clear that industry needs to take action for their waste. We are investing

Initiatives like the AFGCs will lift the recycling rates of hard to recycle consumer plastics like chocolate and chip wrappers from around 10 per cent to 65 per cent by 2030. These are the sorts of practical outcomes that will boost consumer confidence when they recycle. $10.5 million to seed 11 new and expand four existing industryled initiatives that will make a practical environmental difference. It is great to see industry respond strongly to our call. “Initiatives like the AFGCs will lift the recycling rates of hard to recycle consumer plastics like chocolate and chip wrappers from around 10 per cent to 65 per cent by 2030. These are the sorts of practical outcomes that will boost consumer confidence when they recycle. “Not only will these initiatives see better outcomes for the environment, they will also create around 600 jobs at a time when many Australians are looking for work.”

A win for the little guys! MRA wins 8 of 11 categories and is voted best recycling and waste consultancy in 2020...

Assistant Minister for Waste Reduction and Environmental Management, Trevor Evans said the ORGANISATION

TITLE

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

GRANT AMOUNT (EXCL GST)

COMPLETION DATE

Dairy Australia Limited

A Circular Economy for Silage Wrap

This project will assess the requirements for a successful and resilient product stewardship scheme and then, if feasible, run regional pilots before moving to national implementation.

$965,400

30/03/2023

Equilibrium OMG Pty Ltd

SeatCare

This project will finalise a design and implement a product stewardship scheme for old, unwanted or obsolete child car safety seats.

$930,000

31/03/2023

Australian Bedding Stewardship Council Limited

Launch a national product stewardship scheme for mattresses and bedding

This project will design and implement a product stewardship scheme for used mattresses and used bedding.

$937,700

30/10/2022

Australasian Circular Textile Association Ltd

Circular Threads

This project will develop a business case and design a product stewardship scheme to collect, reuse and recycle uniforms and workwear.

$360,510

26/01/2023

RM Consulting Group Pty Ltd

National NonPackaging Agricultural Plastics Stewardship Scheme

This project will develop a business case and complete a scheme design, then run two 6-month pilots in South-East Queensland and Victoria for nonpackaging agricultural plastics.

$893,866

31/03/2023

Close The Loop Ltd.

Developing a National Cosmetics Circular Economy

This project will develop a cosmetic waste stewardship scheme, including a centralised network to collect, process and recirculate used cosmetic packaging.

$999,019

30/06/2022

Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation Limited

A comprehensive product stewardship framework for plastic oil containers

This project will develop a business case, then design and implement a product stewardship scheme for used plastic oil containers.

$632,000

31/03/2023

Australian Food and Grocery Council Limited

National Plastics Recycling Scheme

This project will bring the food and grocery supply chain together to deliver a national scheme to enhance the collection and processing of plastic packaging and increase the use of recycled content.

$985,866

31/03/2023

Strategy, policy and planning Tech & infrastructure assessment Economic modelling Education and consultation Tender development Logistics studies Environmental Carbon

Contact our award-winning team today and find out what we can do for you. Call 02 8541 6169 or email info@mraconsulting.com.au mraconsulting.com.au

INSIDEWASTE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021

Celebrating 10 years

15 successful projects would “move the dial in Australia” around our mindsets to thinking about waste as a resource. “Australians are increasingly looking to responsibly recycle or give new life to their unwanted products and this funding will deliver recycling schemes for items such as mattresses, used cosmetics, child car seats, old uniforms, coffee pods and

Daily news updates at www.insidewaste.com.au

// News

farm plastics,” he said. “Our seed funding, along with the reforms in our Recycling Act, empowers industry and product experts to take more responsibility for their products. There will be further opportunities for funding, and I encourage everyone to work with the new Product Stewardship Centre for Excellence to progress their ideas.” iw

One proposal for the Federal Government’s National Product Stewardship Investment Fund (NPSIF) would see 200 billion chocolate wrappers recycled.

The scheme aims to increase the recovery of plastics by an estimated 189,700 tonnes per year. Closed Loop Environmental Solutions Pty Ltd

Simply Cups expansion and enhancement project

This project will expand the Simply Cups product stewardship scheme to all states and territories; while undertaking research to ensure products manufactured from the recycled cups meet industry specifications.

$697,200

31/12/2022

Asaleo Personal Care Pty Ltd

Project Divert

This project will establish a new industry-led product stewardship scheme for commercial facilities to recycle used absorbent hygiene product; a considered problematic waste that typically ends up in landfill.

$561,031

30/12/2022

Planet Ark Environmental Foundation

National coffee capsule product stewardship recycling scheme

This project will establish a national product stewardship scheme to collect and recycle all brands and types of coffee capsules (pods).

$940,000

30/09/2022

Vinyl Council Of Australia

TexBack: PVC-Polyester Textiles Stewardship Scheme

This project will develop the business case and design a national product stewardship scheme for PVC coated polyester textiles.

$349,850

30/06/2022

Moustralian Mobile Telecommunications Association Limited

Business Case to expand MobileMuster

This project will develop a business case to expand the scope of MobileMuster’s e-waste collection to include electronic products that are currently not covered by other product stewardship programs.

$373,200

31/01/2022

This project will design and implement a national, industryled, plant packaging product stewardship scheme.

$549,000

This project will enhance and expand the Compost Network, an organic recycling initiative and online platform providing businesses with access to a product stewardship scheme for organic waste and compostable packaging.

$398,000

Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation Ltd – supported by Greenlife Industry Australia

Polypropylene Plant Packaging Recycling Program

BioPak Pty Ltd

The Compost Network

Daily news updates at www.insidewaste.com.au

30/01/2023

31/12/2022 Australian

BE A L CAL LEADER From Council fleet tyres to recycled rubber in roads, Local Councils can really pack a punch in leading circular economy outcomes for new and used tyres. Some Local Councils are leaders in the sustainable management of used tyres, but more Councils need to get on board. Learn more about the multiple benefits of TSA Accreditation visit tyrestewardship.org.au or email us at

getonboard@tyrestewardship.org.au

TAKE THE LEAD AT LOCAL LEVEL. APPLY FOR TSA ACCREDITION

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021 INSIDEWASTE

news

Fromthe theCEO’s CEO’sdesk desk From IF YOU HAVEN’T ALREADY trawled the web for 2020 Environment theforsecond memes, I would Ministers recommendwill you meet do it, ifforonly a time this year on after 7 December, following first much-needed laugh what has been a truly the peculiar 2018 Meeting of Environment Ministers (MEM) year. We know it has not been an easy run for many, in April, whichwewas in partthe a response tobushfire the import as together, progressed clean-up of restrictions driven by China’s National impacted areas, dealt with the threat and impactsSword of Policy and the effectsonthis policy had across the COVID-19 pandemic business andhas communities, the now, Australian recovery (WARR) and face thewaste long and road resource to economic recovery. industry. Key decisions derived from the April MEM WMRR is extremely proud of our waste and resource include:industry, who through it all, pushed on with recovery providing essential services and advising governments • Reducing waste generation, target on many diverse issues - from wasteendorsing export bansa to of 100% of Australian packaging being recyclable, clinical waste - while pivoting to meet ever evolving needs and requirements in an compostable or reusable by continues 2025, andtodeveloping uncertain time. Even in the midst of a pandemic, our sector innovate, targets for recycled content in packaging. invest, build, and navigate forthcoming changes to policies and regulations • Increasing Australia’s domestic recycling capacity. nationally and across jurisdictions. • Increasing the demand for recycled 2020 was also an extraordinary yearproducts. for the sector, if we think about the ongoing • Exploring advance waste-to-energy and waste-to-biofuels. focus and opportunities commitment byto governments, including our federal leaders, to bolster and • Updating the 2009 Waste Strategy by year end, which grow recycling, resource recovery, and remanufacturing. Historywill was include made thiscircular year economy principles. with recycling and clean energy being named one of six priority areas of the federal government’s Modern Manufacturing Strategy; increasingly so, we are being seen as It is to take stock and what been achieved since thesewe decisions thetime material managers andexamine the vehicle for has economic growth that we know are. were announced. Now, seven (7) months may not seem like a long time, however in A that timeof weaction have seen further markets close (Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam) and year if you anset operator stress, (7)ofmonths could 2021are looks to be a under year ofcontinued action by allfinancial stakeholders as seven the first the make breakexport you. bans (glass) is rolled out from January 1, the roadmap for COAGorwaste recycling and clean energy under the federal manufacturing strategy is developed, Following theramp AprilupMEM, we have and had recycling three (3)infrastructure, states step new in with jurisdictions their processing state varying degrees of financial assistance for industry (councils and operators). Thisand should programs, as well as regulatory and policy frameworks are implemented (CDS bethe expected considering almost all states (except Queensland and Tasmania) EP Act in Victoria, landfill levy in Tasmania, fingers crossed the progression have of access significant waste levyAct income each On the eastern Victoria NSW’sto20-year strategy, WARR reforms in year. WA, food waste in SA,seaboard, plastics ban in has approximately million in waste levy reserves in the Sustainability Fund Queensland… Just$600 to name a few). and WMRR NSW raises more thanengaged $700 million per annum from waste has been deeply and widely consulting on the all of theselevy. (andThere more)is certainly lack of funds that can beessential reinvested into our essential industry. reforms,no advocating on behalf of our industry to ensure we remain front and centre of our governments’ agendas and that these initiatives have a positive Funding helps butonas know, growth the money goes a much longer way with long-term impact ourwe industry’s and sustainability. Government support and leadership, as well as appropriate policy levers. In a nutshell, WMRR has your back while also leading from the front! 2020 may have resulted in many of us holed up in our bedrooms – and how lovely it’s been VICTORIA to get a glimpse of these homes (we’ve seen libraries, paintings, plants, posters, Victoria has arguably been the most active earnest in supporting the has industry dogs, adorable children, you name it!) – andand through it all, the Association post-China, with two (2) relief packages announced to support the recycling maintained and even boosted its activities. industry, valued at a total of $37 million. The Victorian Government has also gone above andforefront beyond all others states by announcing it would take a leadership role At the in Today, creating market recycled products. WMRR is at demand the tablefor in many government discussions, we’ve bolstered our partnerships with ministers and regulators, ramped up our sector’s profile in the SOUTH media,AUSTRALIA and consulted widely on many policies and strategies. As a result, we have Government announced a $12.4 million support package comprising $2 million of additional expenditure, $5 million additional funding for a loan scheme, together with targeted funding from the Green Industries SA budget. The Government has also offered grants for recycling infrastructure.

cemented our status as the national peak body for the sector, the first port of call however Queensland has embarked on the development forindustry government whenthe seeking industry Government input. of waste management strategyfront, underpinned bynot a waste levy to increase Ona the knowledge and education WMRR has beendisposal able to progress recycling and recovery and create new jobs. The State will re-introduce a number of in-person events and conferences but that has not stopped us froma $70/ tonne landfill levypeers. in March 2019.WMRR Thereput areonalso strong attempts to use policy connecting with our This year, a record number of seminars levers (levy discounts and exemptions) to incentivise the use of recycled and forums – both high level and technical, albeit in cyberspace, and this hasmaterial led make itengagement cost competitive with virginmembers material.as However, little has been done to toand increased with our regional well as an increase in the establish new markets has not taken in the procurement new members that filteredand intoGovernment greater participation levelsthe in lead working groups and of recycled material. There are grants available for resource recovery operations Branch committees. in Queensland although no monies have been allocated assist The SA Conference and inaugural SA Buy Recycled Expo was to also heldinin2018. This is troubling Queensland rolled out itswith Container Refund Schemeofon 1 November, October and as both were a raving success, a program and line-up exhibitors which will likely impact the cost and revenue models of the State’s MRFs that broadened horizons and taught us all many new things. We’ll reveal the – as we have seen most recently in NSW. but here’s a snapshot: numbers in our year-end newsletter • 21 events, one (1) in-person Conference and one (1) exhibition; AUSTRALIA • WESTERN 42 policy and regulatory submissions; The Western Australian Government set upinterviews a Waste Taskforce in direct response to • 30 media releases and more than 50 media and appearances; the China National Sword. As part of this announcement, the • Weekly resource bulletins and nine (9) COVID-19 newsletters; andState Government localbranches, councils28 to state beginworking the utilisation of afive three - red for • urged Six (6)allstate groups and (5)(3)-bin nationalsystem divisions. general waste, recyclables and green organic wasteadvocating - over the coming As we step intoyellow 2021, for WMRR will continue to be for at the forefront for years toproducer reduce contamination. While this taskforce is a step inand theend right direction, extended responsibility, the establishment of secondary markets are yetproducts to see any tangiblesustainable results from it or any funding for industry. In October, forwe recycled including procurement, best practice across the WA Waste Authority released its draft Waste Strategy to 2030, which comprises all areas of the waste hierarchy, and improvement of data and state regulatory a comprehensive and detailed roadmap towards the State’s shared vision of frameworks. We are also planning to roll out a bigger range services to support becoming a sustainable, low-waste, circular economy. our members ahead of the many exciting changes ahead. Online forums and webinars will continue, focusing on myriad material streams, COMMONWEALTH policy issues, as well as technical and operational subjects, alongside the return of Following events the MEM in April, hasand a new Federalbreakfasts. Environment face-to-face such as ourAustralia Women ofnow Waste Minister’s AndMinister, in Melissa Price, who in October reiterated to media MEM’s commitment to explore 2021, our beloved Australasian Landfill and Transfer Stations Conference, as well to energy as partfrom of the solution to thewill impacts of better China’sthan National aswaste the very timely Energy Waste Conference be back, ever. Sword, which is troubling (EfW is not a solution to recycling). The Commonwealth has We will also continue to champion the success of our industry’s professionals also backed the Australian Recycling Label and endorsed the National Packaging with development of WMRR’s training and accreditation program to progress in Targets developed bytrials the Australian Packaging Covenant (APCO), the new year; we expect to commence in the second half ofOrganisation 2021. which has to date, failed to incorporate industry feedback in the development WMRR could not and cannot do all of this without our members who have of these their targets. the Commonwealth’s beenTosignificant contributed timeToand support, propelling us credit, to eventhere greaterhas heights. Policy,national with the Department of allcoordination our members,inourreviewing Board, as the well National as BranchWaste committee, division Environment bringing together industry players and States during the review and working group leaders, thank you for all your hard work and contributions process. in 2020. WMRR has now opened its 2021 membership renewal and notifications will The updated Policy willinstructions now go before Environment on 7membership; December. The arrive in your inbox with on how to renew orMinisters sign up for Commonwealth can play a key role – one that goes beyond the development of the or, if you’d like to get on the front foot before your membership ends on 31 National Waste Policy. WMAA is supportive of the Federal Government maximising a ring on 02 8746 5000 or December 2020, please give the national office the levers it has, including and importation powers, to be maintain a strong, email info@wmrr.asn.au. 2021taxation membership fees and categories can found on sustainable waste and resource recovery industry. www.wmrr.asn.au. We are excited about what 2021 will bring but now, it’s time for a break and WMRR AHEAD MEM 2 (and restful) Christmas. Stay safe and see you next year! wishes youOF a very merry There may be movement Australia, Gayle Sloan, chief executiveacross officer, WMRR with some states doing better than others, but the consensus is, progress is still taking way too long. It is evident that there are funds available in almost all States to assist with developing secondary manufacturing infrastructure, however the only way that this will really happen is if there is government leadership around mandating recycled content in Australia now, not later.

NEW SOUTH WALES At first glance, New South Wales’ eye-watering $47 million recycling support package was heralded as the spark of hope industry needed. However, on closer inspection, the bulk of this package that was funded via the Waste Less, Recycle More initiative and therefore the waste levy, was not new, making it very difficult for stakeholders, including local government, to utilise the funds as they were already committed to other activities. Some of the criteria proposed by the NSW EPA also made it challenging for industry to apply to these grants. On the plus side, efforts are being made by the NSW Government to stimulate demand for recycled content through the intergovernmental agency working groups that have been established, though no tangible increase in demand or facilities have developed… Yet.

Voluntary schemes like the Used Packaging NEPM, under which APCO is auspiced, are not working. We have 1.6million tonnes of packaging waste in Australia, which needs to be used as an input back into packaging. Barriers to using recycled content in civil infrastructure must be identified and removed, and Government must lead in this field and prefer and purchase recycled material. A tax on virgin material should also be imposed as it is overseas. MEM must show strong leadership on this issue. Ministers have, since April, dealt directly with operators and councils that are under stress and we have a chance to create jobs and investment in Australia at a time when manufacturing is declining. Ministers have the opportunity to be leaders of today, not procrastinators – leaders of tomorrow and we are urging them to act and not just talk in December.

QUEENSLAND Unlike its neighbours, Queensland did not provide any financial support to

Gayle Sloan Chief Executive Officer

INSIDEWASTE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021

Daily news updates at www.insidewaste.com.au

// Legal

Tips and traps in waste management law By Robert Milne THIS ARTICLE looks at tips and traps I have seen in waste management law in recent times. The examples I give are from Queensland, but similar issues arise all over Australia, and the world.

Waste management uses outside of the urban footprint Queensland has Regional Plans including the South East Queensland Regional Plan (SEQRP). These include mapping which designates certain land as within the urban footprint and land outside of the urban footprint (for example, land in the Regional Landscape and Rural Production Area (RLRPA). Understandably, urban activities are intended to be located within the urban footprint. It is when dealing with land outside of the urban footprint that significant legal hurdles to gaining (and changing) approvals emerge. In some cases, local governments take the view that waste management activities on land outside of the urban footprint must deal with these hurdles. However, experience indicates that local governments are often wrong in this view. A close examination of the relevant definitions and the relevant local government planning scheme often results in the conclusion that these hurdles do not apply, and often waste management activities can be located outside of the urban footprint.

1.Infrastructure charging Infrastructure charges for new approvals or changing an approval can be a very significant cost. They relate to five ‘heads of charge’being sewer, water supply, stormwater/flood mitigation, roads and community facilities, such as parks. I have seen many examples of creative accounting by local governments to significantly overcharge, and to fail to give proper offsets or credits. In some cases, infrastructure provided by the developer should be classified as trunk infrastructure – which attracts offsets, credits or refunds for the cost of construction and the value of any land dedicated for the infrastructure. If it is wrongly classified by the local government as non-trunk infrastructure the developer can make a

It is when dealing with land outside of the urban footprint that significant legal hurdles to gaining (and changing) approvals emerge.

conversion application to change the classification to trunk infrastructure. However, a conversion application can only be made within 12 months of the approval being granted, and only if construction of the infrastructure has not started. These constraints can result in large amounts of credits or offsets being lost, perhaps worth millions of dollars. Another trap is when infrastructure charges are not paid. The charges attach to the land and if someone buys a site, they become liable for any charges that have not been paid. Local governments have been successful in recovering unpaid charges from subsequent owners of a site. Care should be taken to check that infrastructure charges have been paid in full. One way to check this is to obtain a full town planning certificate.

2. Environmental offsets Another costly trap is environmental offsets, such as for clearing vegetation for a project, or to expand a project. These offsets often involve large amounts of money. Even if an area has been cleared, it is important to check

Daily news updates at www.insidewaste.com.au

that any environmental offsets have been paid and correctly calculated.

3. Lapse of approvals It is a common misconception that if a development is substantially started, then its approvals will not lapse. This is incorrect. In fact, it is now common for local governments to include conditions that say that the use does not take effect until all of the conditions have been complied with and the use has in fact started. This is the opposite of the ‘substantially started’ test. If an approval has lapsed, an application can be made to the Planning and Environment Court to revive the approval. These applications are often complicated and there is no guarantee the Court will grant the revival of the approval, and in some cases local governments oppose the revival and the Court declines to revive the approval. Applications can be made to the local government to extend the life of an approval, but this application must be made before the approval lapses. It’s not uncommon for local governments to refuse applications to extend the life of an approval.

4. Changing approvals It is now easier to change approvals in Queensland – changes are no longer limited to minor changes. It is worthwhile to check that your environmental authority (EA) from the state government aligns with your development permit from the local government. We have seen examples where the EA conditions about the types of waste that can be accepted or the thresholds for waste volumes that can be accepted are misaligned with the development permit. This is important because the facility may inadvertently be operating unlawfully which could result in hefty on the spot fines or a prosecution and could impact on the effectiveness of your insurance policies. Often this can be corrected relatively easily by making an application to change the EA. In most cases we have found these applications to be approved quickly and at low cost. The government rarely prosecutes an entity which is pro-active in correcting these types of errors. iw Robert Milne is the managing director of Milne Legal.

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021 INSIDEWASTE

Cover Story //

A good collection network deploys a variety of complementary types of return point infrastructure.

CDS: the battle is over By Claire Moffat

(continued from front page) HOWEVER, not all the schemes have been seen in a positive light. In August, Inside Waste reported on comments from the Queensland Productivity Commission and an industry review by the Total Environment Centre (TEC) which criticised operator of the Queensland scheme, Container Exchange (COEX), for its lack of transparency and accountability. Inside Waste asked COEX CEO Ken Noye about these claims. “COEX is a Not-For-Profit organisation which implemented and operates the Containers for Change scheme in Queensland. The Queensland scheme’s goal is to reduce container litter and increase recycling, while supporting local businesses, charities, and community groups. “We are continually working to enhance our customers’ experience 20

“We are now focusing on extending our network to drive collection rates, confident our community will get behind our ambitious target of 85 per cent of sold containers returned by July 2022.”

TEC and Boomerang Alliance director Jeff Angel said that there is now concrete agreement about the refund.

and recognise that on some occasions our network and services may need to be improved. According to Noye, COEX is working to improve customer convenience and accessibility by increasing the number of container refund points and providing customer choice across the state. “We offer a range of return options

INSIDEWASTE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021

to suit our customer needs including bag drops, depots, reverse vending machines and pop ups,” he said. Noye added that Queensland charities and community groups have raised more than $3 million through scheme IDs and that the scheme provides: • An effective and efficient container refund scheme ensuring scheme costs remain low for customers and scheme participants. • Opportunities for local businesses, Queensland has 75 independent contractors operating Container Refund Points. • Twenty-one social enterprises operating Container Refund Points,

earning revenue to support local communities. • Through the unique scheme ID, charities, community groups, sporting clubs and schools are able to raise funds at any time, from any location.

Milestone targets Noye said that in January 2020 during the first full financial year of operation, the Queensland scheme hit a 78.4 per cent peak collection rate. “While COVID-19 has had an impact on Queenslanders’ recycling habits, we have continued to grow our collection rate with 22 per cent volume growth year-on-year across the network. Our

Daily news updates at www.insidewaste.com.au

// Cover Story

“Further, the waste recycling industry welcomes the opportunity to create a diverse range of collection points, including reverse vending machines, drive through depots, over the counter in shops and pop up collection points at events and festivals.” local communities. In response to the Victorian Government’s proposal that Victoria adopt an industry-operated CDS scheme with a split responsibilities structure, Noye said that Queensland’s NFP scheme “has delivered more than 700 jobs, offers customer choice, improved benefits for community organisations and strong redemption rates. “By providing a level playing field so everyone can take part has huge advantages, it opens the collection network to more local and small businesses and community groups and increased fundraising opportunities for all. “We’re incredibly proud of our scheme in Queensland and invite the Victorian Government to come see for themselves.”

Concrete Agreement

Tomra/Cleanaway CEO James Dorney stressed that costeffectiveness was critical.

2019-2020 yearly average collection rate is 60.1 per cent, which included the COVID-19 shutdown period. “We are now focussing on extending our network to drive collection rates, confident our community will get behind our ambitious target of 85 per cent of sold containers returned by July 2022. We have already achieved a 54 per cent container litter reduction rate, so we are certain that Queenslanders will continue to support the scheme and our positive impact on the environment and our

TEC and Boomerang Alliance Director, Jeff Angel told Inside Waste that as an environmental campaigner for over 40 years he knows what a battleground looks like and “the national CDS landscape is nothing like it.” Angel added that there is now concrete agreement about the refund rate and what are eligible containers (with a small variation in SA) - the basics of the scheme. “I have every confidence the nation’s Environment Ministers can work through on consensus if those need to change. “I should point out however, that we wanted a single national CDS initially but the big beverage players and allies stopped a CDS with their well-funded campaign, so state schemes had to occur instead (despite the same players opposing them). “As we now have state laws and multiple contracts with governments and collection points, the current situation will be impossible to disentangle. This is a position I understand the Commonwealth Government supports. Angel added that there is “clearly some disagreement about the governance arrangements with the types in place - SA/NT; NSW; QLD/ WA” but noted that the industry is learning all the time. “This is a conventional process, subject to supply of in-depth research and consultation, reflected in some public debate between and campaigning by stakeholders,” he said.

Daily news updates at www.insidewaste.com.au

He also noted that COEX is slowly responding in the area of transparency and looking for more collection points.

Support for split scheme Angel strongly supports the Victorian Government’s verdict on a split scheme, “I understand there is a vigorous debate about the Victorian governance proposal. I think Coke and Lion have overstepped the mark with their misrepresentations of the NSW governance and deploying of jobs and charity revenue data in media from a report they have refused to release publicly, nor supplied the assumptions behind to anyone. “Their focus on claiming the NSW scheme is a for-profit model is erroneous, as anyone in NSW or QLD operating a collection point needs to make a profit. The non-profit element in both schemes is the entity carrying out beverage industry fee collection, data collection, reporting and audit,” he added.

Industry united The response to Victoria’s proposed CDS model has been strong with the WARR industry united in its support. Victorian Waste Management Association CEO Peter Anderson told Inside Waste that the industry welcomed the opportunity to work closely with the Victorian Government to build this new recycling program. “Drink cans and bottles make up almost half of all the litter in Victoria,” Anderson said. “A CDS would significantly reduce this litter and help ensure a clean stream of recyclable materials can be re-used in new products instead of going to landfill or polluting the environment and harming our wildlife. “Further, the waste recycling industry welcomes the opportunity to create a diverse range of collection points, including reverse vending machines, drive through depots, over the counter in shops and pop up collection points at events and festivals.” He added that the CDS design includes a separate scheme coordinator and network operator, ensuring transparency and accountability.

Tomra endorses splitresponsibility TOMRA Cleanaway is the joint venture operator of the NSW CDS Scheme and its CEO James Dorney, who has been

According to Noye, COEX is working to improve customer convenience and accessibility.

in the role for two years, told Inside Waste that the key aim of any CDS is to deliver high rates of return and positive environmental outcomes. He also stressed that cost-effectiveness was critical. Since the NSW scheme launched in December 2017, which Dorney acknowledged got off to a “scratchy start”, 600 outlets have been rolled out across the state, a figure which is increasing. Volumes dropped in April during lockdown but once this was lifted, they increased with 200 million returns recorded in October. Meanwhile, Dorney said that TOMRA Cleanaway commended the Victorian Government on a diligent and thorough process to date. “We support the future adoption of a split responsibility CDS to successfully deliver against Victorian Government’s stated objectives.”

High return rates TOMRA’s head of business development Markus Fraval also noted that “the split responsibility design drives high return rates by prioritising convenience for consumers, which is absolutely fundamental. “A good collection network deploys a variety of complementary types of return point infrastructure to serve different customer types and demographics, including high volume depots and smaller over-thecounter or bag drop refund points.” “Importantly, the bestperforming systems around the world work with retail locations to make recycling part of people’s everyday routine. “Placing RVMs in shopping centres or supermarket carparks provides a foundation for these schemes. That means that instead of having to make a separate, dedicated trip to an out-of-the-way depot to return containers, they can can simply be dropped off with the empty bottles and cans on on an average trip into the shops,” Dorney concluded. iw

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021 INSIDEWASTE

Cover Story //

Anatomy of a plastic packaging tax By Inside Waste (continued from front page) PLASTIC PACKAGING is packaging that is predominantly plastic by weight. It will not apply to any plastic packaging which contains at least 30 per cent recycled plastic, or any packaging which is not predominantly plastic by weight. Imported plastic packaging will be liable to the tax, whether the packaging is unfilled or filled. The government has recently held a consultation (which was extended from the original May deadline to August due to the COVID crisis) on the design and implementation of the tax, using stakeholder engagement and feedback to help inform the tax design. The UK Government is presently in the process of publishing the summary of responses and draft primary legislation for technical consultation.

Policy objective and timeline According to HMRC, the tax will provide a clear economic incentive for businesses to use recycled material in the production of plastic packaging, which will create greater demand for this material. In turn, this will stimulate increased levels of recycling and collection of plastic waste, diverting it away from landfill or incineration. At Budget 2017, the government announced a call for evidence into using the tax system or charges to tackle single-use plastic waste and received 162,000 responses. At Budget 2018, a new tax on plastic packaging with less than 30 per cent recycled plastic was announced. The government then launched a consultation in February 2019 seeking input on the initial proposals for the design of the tax. A summary of responses was published in July 2019. At Budget 2020, the government announced key decisions on the design of the tax, and HMRC launched a consultation on the more detailed design and implementation of the tax. 22

HM Revenue and Customs plastic packaging tax is expected to take effect from April 2022.

Current law The Finance Act 2020 contains paving legislation which enables HMRC spending on costs associated with the development of the tax, in particular the development of the IT system to support this new tax.

Proposed revisions The government is now publishing a draft of the legislation for technical consultation which sets out the key features of the tax, including: • the £200 per tonne tax rate for packaging with less than 30 per cent recycled plastic. • the registration threshold of 10 tonnes of plastic packaging produced in or imported into the UK per annum. • the scope of the tax by definition of the type of taxable product and recycled content. • the exemption for producers and importers of small quantities of plastic packaging. • who will be liable to pay the tax and need to register with HMRC. • how the tax will be collected, recovered and enforced • how the tax will be relieved on exports.

Summary Exchequer impact (£ million) The impacts of this measure were set out in the Budget 2020 and more details can be found in the policy costings document published alongside Budget 2020. HMRC advised that revisions to the impact of the measure in light of changes will be subject to scrutiny by the Office for Budget Responsibility and will be set out at a future fiscal event. Economic impact HMRC stated that this measure is not expected to have any significant macroeconomic impacts. The tax will

provide a clear economic incentive for businesses to use recycled material in plastic packaging, which will create greater demand for this material and in turn, stimulate increased levels of recycling and collection of plastic waste, diverting it away from landfill or incineration. A behavioural adjustment is made to account for a behavioural response due to the policy, most significantly an increase in recycled content. Smaller behavioural adjustments include business behaviour such as reducing plastic packaging use, and consumer reduction of purchases of products containing plastic packaging. Impact on individuals, households and families This is not expected to impact individuals unless businesses pass on the charge. It is expected that if all the tax is passed on to consumers, the cost to them will be small, as plastic packaging makes up a very

small amount of the total cost of goods. On this basis, HMRC stated that it expected customer experience to stay broadly the same. There is not expected to be any impact on family formation, stability or breakdown. It is also not anticipated that this measure will impact on groups sharing protected characteristics. Impact on business However, the legislation is expected to impact an estimated 20,000 producers and importers of plastic packaging. One-off costs include familiarisation with the new rules, training for staff, registration with HMRC, and developing the required reporting framework to complete tax returns. Continuing costs could include completing, filing and paying tax returns, keeping appropriate records (including those required to claim the export credit), and amending returns. There will also be new registrations

2019 to 2020

2020 to 2021

2021 to 2022

2022 to 2023

2023 to 2024

2024 to 2025

+240

+235

+220

The financial impacts of the tax will decrease from 2023 onwards.

INSIDEWASTE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021

Daily news updates at www.insidewaste.com.au

// Cover Story

and de-registrations each year. Despite the expectation that customer experience will be relatively unaffected, HMRC believes that it could be negatively impacted as this is a new tax that businesses will need to understand and comply with. However, to support businesses HMRC will develop clear guidance and other tools to help businesses understand and meet their obligations. It is expected that the impact on businesses will be significant and the overall impact will depend on the design of the tax. The government has recently held a consultation on the detailed design and implementation of the tax, including on guidance and tools that can help businesses meet their obligations, and the information gathered from this will be used to gain a better understanding of these impacts. There is expected to be no impact on civil society organisations. Operational impact HMRC expects to incur one-off capital costs to develop the system for collecting the tax. There will also be ongoing resource costs for HMRC to implement this change, monitor compliance and meet customer service needs. HMRC will incur estimated costs of £6.59 million developing a new computer system to support this tax, together with £11.36million in staff costs. It stated that revisions to the operational impact of the measure covering a new scorecard period will be set out at a future fiscal event. There may also be extra costs incurred by the Ministry of Justice as a result of this new tax, which will be quantified in due course. Justice Impact Test In line with other taxes, there will be civil and criminal penalties for failing

to comply with the tax, including penalties for failure to register, failure to file returns and failure to pay the tax. A full Justice Impact Test will be completed. Environmental impact assessment The rationale of this tax aims to increase the use of recycled content in plastic packaging and it is anticipated that as a result of the tax there will be a significant increase in the amount of plastic packaging with greater than 30 per cent recycled plastic. Recycled plastic has a carbon footprint that can be up to four times lower than that of virgin plastic. The policy may also help to divert plastics from landfill or incineration, and drive recycling technologies within the UK. HMRC stated that other impacts have been considered and none has been identified. The measure will be monitored through information collected from tax returns and will be kept under review through communication with affected taxpayer groups.

What the industry says The UK Environmental Services Association (ESA) has urged government to “stay the course” on its plans to implement a tax on the use of virgin and single-use plastics In its formal response to the consultation, the ESA stated that it supports a comprehensive plastic packaging tax, as a complementary counterpart to the Department of Environment Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) Resources & Waste Strategy, which will drive domestic demand for recycled plastics and help make future packaging designs and material choices more sustainable. ESA has stated that it believes the rate of £200 per tonne renders the tax effective and ambitious, but it would like to see an “escalator” approach for both the tax price and recycled to

support businesses HMRC will develop clear guidance and other tools to help businesses understand and meet their obligations. “HMRC has rightly included socalled bio-based, compostable and biodegradable plastics within the scope of the tax, which will help avoid a reactionary and unhelpful shift to novel and hard-to-recycle forms of plastics. Although we believe HMRC must be very clear on the definition of “cellulose-based polymers”, which are excluded from the tax, to make sure manufacturers and consumers understand how these are distinct from other forms of plastic, and how they interact with the recycling and waste management system. ESA added that it also supports the decision to extend the scope of the tax to include imports of filled plastic packaging, which will support a level playing field and help preserve UKbased filling operations. According to executive director, Jacob Hayler, “Our sector is ready to push the button on significant further investment in domestic plastic recycling

Is Australia ready for a Plastics Tax? NextTek managing director Ed Kosior who consults to the UK Government told Inside Waste that a plastics tax in Australia could be the catalyst to lift the country’s extremely low level of plastic recycling. “Australia currently recycles only five per cent of all of the 3.2 million tonnes plastics used in Australia which is a very low number on any scale. Meanwhile, the recycling of plastics packaging is claimed to be 16 per cent and the obvious driver for local investment is an eager and large market for recycled plastics “ he said. “The declaration of a recycled content tax would spur new investment and give brand owners a meaningful target. APCO have set a Plastics Pact target of 50 per cent recycled content. “A Plastics Tax would stimulate action to achieve this target.”

UK demand to increase

There will be civil and criminal penalties for failure of compliance – like failure to register or file returns.

Daily news updates at www.insidewaste.com.au

and reprocessing infrastructure, which will create new circular economy jobs, but to unlock this investment it is imperative that government gets both the Plastics Tax and the Resources & Waste Strategy right. “It is important that those responsible for the final design of the plastics tax heed the warnings from multiple sectors, including ours, to avoid loopholes or unintended consequences that may drive packaging towards hard-to-recycle materials or packaging formats – diminishing or reversing the net environmental benefit of the tax. “Although the economic outlook for the country is uncertain as a result of the COVID crisis, we would urge HMRC to stay the course in both the ambition and implementation of the plastics tax. “To water down the detail, or to delay implementation, would be costly to the UK’s long-term sustainability goals; the achievement of our national recycling targets; and will be contradictory to the pursuit of a “green recovery” from the crisis.” iw

As the UK has high-level community engagement around the waste, Kosior said that he expects the demand for recycled plastics within the country would not just increase to avoid the tax but also to demonstrate alignment with sustainability targets which are well established. “Investment has already been allocated to new recycling plants to boost recycled plastic output capacity. The

Ed Kosier.

quality of the recycled plastic is very high. It must be pure and free from odour and any toxic substances and consistent in colour and processing behaviour. “The acceptance of self-coloured grey will become a new “badge of honour” for new packaging,” he explained. Kozier added that improved design for recycling implementation to simplify and boost the quality of recycled materials including better colouration systems and labels and glues for packaging would also emerge as a result of the Tax. “We can also expect to see the introduction of new sorting technologies that can discriminate between food and non- food packaging that will allow food grade recycled plastics to emerge in PP and PS.”

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021 INSIDEWASTE

Future Directions //

2021: strong and full of opportunity By Inside Waste

was more than 60 per cent down.

THE Australian WARR industry has emerged from a remarkable year that demanded not only flexibility and adaptation but strength of character to face unknown challenges. When compared with other Western countries, Australia is a strong model of success. Unfortunately, a recent survey reveals that more than half of waste businesses in the UK (considered to be a global leader in waste management) have found their level of work lower than in 2019 after the impact of the pandemic. When asked about their volume of business compared with the same period in 2019, there were 53 per cent of UK businesses working at a lower level, with 5 per cent saying work

US industry disrupted Meanwhile, COVID has disrupted the US recycling industry with waste sources, quantities and destinations in flux. Grocers, whether by state decree or on their own, have brought back singleuse plastic bags. Even IKEA suspended of its signature yellow reusable in-store bags. Against this global picture, Australia has powered towards its waste and recycling goals supported by strong investment at a state and federal level. Inside Waste talked to some leading companies to gauge their future plans and gained a glimpse into 2021 that reflects positivity, optimism and a strong commitment to goals across various sectors. iw

New Veolia CEO Richard Kirkman believes that Australia and New Zealand have a fantastic opportunity to deliver environmental change.

An exciting era VEOLIA Australia and New Zealand CEO Richard Kirkman arrived from the UK business in the second half of 2020 following what the company has described as “a difficult year with devastating bushfires in Australia and then the global pandemic.” However, Veolia explained that it is now re-energising for a positive and impactful year ahead. “And on track to widen the scope of essential services in waste, energy and water, to provide resilient

and sustainable solutions to businesses and local communities, and to plan for much needed recovery infrastructure.” With the appropriate policy support and signals from the federal and state governments, and the community appetite to do more, Kirkman said it believes that this is an exciting time to be in our industry to drive change for a truly circular economy. Meanwhile, drawing upon lessons learnt globally, Kirkman said that systemic change is needed to value materials more, that attitudes and education is paramount, and that we all need to innovate our way forward. “I’m impressed by the talent running deep within the Veolia ANZ teams and so I am very positive about the future - we can go anywhere we want with capable motivated people. Australia and New Zealand have a fantastic opportunity to deliver environmental change, which will allow human activities and the economy to prosper. I am on the lookout for creative ways we can recover valuable materials, reduce energy consumption, reduce emissions and give our people an opportunity for an exhilarating career. There is much to do and many capable people ready to do it.”

Strengthening portfolio ELB Equipment has been serving the Australia & New Zealand market since the 1950’s and is now the exclusive supplier of Ditch Witch, Komptech and other world-renowned brands. It’s customers include second- and third-generation family businesses and a strategic pillar of the business is nurturing a high-performing staff over the long run. CEA Specialty Products Group brand leader Dean Cavanagh advised that over the past 12 months, ELB Equipment has become part of CEA, a CFC Group company that represents a number of world class brands that service the waste sector including, Komptech, Diamond Z, Screenpod, TrackStack, and Rowan. “These brands, together with the CEA network, will serve as the foundation to provide the waste sector with product, service and technical support into the future. “The previous ELB Equipment business unit will integrate into the CEA business under the new moniker, Specialty Products Group (SPG),” he said.

CEA SPG brand leader Dean Cavanagh said that the company is developing a strategy which will comprehensively meet the demands of its composting customer base.

Cavanagh explained that it was due to CEA’s national footprint and dealer network, that SPG is wellpositioned to support its full range of products and services. “As we fully integrate operations in early 2021, we anticipate continuous improvement with our aftersales capabilities.”

INSIDEWASTE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021

Looking to the future, CEA SPG is planning to add additional equipment lines to strengthen its portfolio. “Specifically, we’re developing a strategy to more comprehensively meet the demands of our composting customer base. The strategy will include pre and post composting processes as well as the separation of

contamination from input materials to ensure the quality of output products. “A significant opportunity exists with the need to pursue clean technologies as they relate to the waste-to-energy and refuse-derived fuels sector. This will ensure we leave the world a ‘greener’ place for future generations,” Cavanagh concluded.

Daily news updates at www.insidewaste.com.au

// Future Directions

Recycling remains a priority BINGO managing director and CEO Daniel Tartak said the company was encouraged by the positive direction both State and Federal Governments have taken in their approach to waste management and recycling. “The initiatives of the Federal Government, including the Recycling Modernisation Fund and the Modern Manufacturing Strategy, coupled with the recent announcements in NSW and Victoria around public housing and infrastructure construction will provide opportunities for building and demolition waste players. He said that 2021 will be a revolutionary year for BINGO as it opens the Materials Processing Centre 2 (MPC 2) at the Eastern Creek Recycling Ecology Park. MPC 2 will be one of Australia’s largest and most advanced recycling plant, capable of processing all dry waste streams. The centre’s advanced optical sorting, cleaning and processing technology will provide customers with a one-stop, tipping shop capable of delivering industry leading recovery rates, tipping times and waste reporting.

BINGO Managing Director and CEO Daniel Tartak says the waste industry is currently undergoing a digital revolution.

“The waste industry is currently undergoing a digital revolution and innovating to meet the expectations of customers is what is setting service providers apart. Digitising customer experience and account management has been a key focus for BINGO over the past 12 months and in 2021 we will be launching a new integrated customer portal, MYBINGO, which will provide

Delivering cutting edge technology GCM Enviro is a leading distributor for the latest in waste management and recycling equipment; from landfill compactors and shredders through to state-of-the-art screeners and compost turners. According to GCM Enviro marketing manager Adam Krajewski, GCM is always looking to provide its customers with the latest cutting edge technology in solid waste management. “Over the next 12 months we will be welcoming a variety of new makes and models to our range. To start the New Year in GCM Enviro marketing manager 2021 we will be introducing the Adam Krajewski is looking forward to a positive 2021. Siebotec 5000 Mobile Trommel Screen. The Siebotec 5000 has recently been introduced to the European market and is designed for screening and separation of excavated soil, compost, biomass or similar materials. “Meanwhile, TANA has also launched the new H Series Landfill Compactor that we will be importing in 2021. The new H Series has a more spacious cab, new AC/heater unit, more powerful working lights and more comfortable seat, making it the perfect work environment. “Alongside the release of the new TANA Landfill Compactors, GCM Enviro will be importing the new TANA Shark Waste Shredder’s. It’s been a great year for us here at GCM Enviro and we are very excited for the year ahead,” he added. Daily news updates at www.insidewaste.com.au

customers with a personalised, reliable account management tool, with broad functionality to take care of business wherever and whenever our customers need to. We believe recycling will continue to be a priority for customers, communities and governments alike in 2021 and beyond. In the building and demolition segment, all stakeholders, from household renovators to large

construction firms and governments are looking for sustainable, low carbon, low cost, circular solutions to prevent waste from ending up in landfill. The challenge for the waste industry will be innovating quickly to develop the assets and solutions to ensure we are meeting the recycling needs of our customers and communities,” Tartak said.

Smooth progress amid COVID safety Hitachi Zosen Inova Australia managing director Dr Marc Stammbach told Inside Waste that the East Rockingham wasteto-energy project is progressing smoothly while staying COVID-safe. “We are welcoming the opening of the borders so we can fly in our project specialists to supervise and facilitate the installation and commissioning of the project. We also see an increased interest in thermal treatment of residual Hitachi Zosen Inova managing director waste on the East Coast of Australia Dr Marc Stammbach said that the with a shift away from landfill. company is preparing fly-throughs of its plants with virtual 3D models. Consequently, we are now hiring more local staff,” he explained. Stammbach added that the company lobbies with other stakeholders to achieve increased uniformity of regulations around source separation, recycling, composting, waste-toenergy, permitting, levies, and end of waste regulations towards increased sustainability. “Nonetheless, 2021 will be challenging for visiting overseas plants. We are preparing fly-throughs of our plants with virtual 3-D models to explain the technology and its safety. “Our home base in Zurich, Switzerland, is busy with executing current and new orders from the UK, Russia, and other places. Our Dubai project is performing early works, and the official start of the 1,800,000 tonnes per year waste-to-energy plant will commence soon. Whilst we travel less, we continue offering and delivering cleantech projects out of our offices and homes with lots of virtual cooperation,” he said. DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021 INSIDEWASTE

AIP Conference 2020 //

Experts take a look inside packaging waste By Claire Moffat THE AUSTRALIAN PACKAGING industry has traditionally been seen as being at odds with the diligent efforts of the WARR industry to deal with the impacts of a society highly dependent on packaging. This year the AIP Australasian Packaging Conference 2020 faced the issue head on with the theme of sustainable packaging threaded throughout its October online event. It was attended by 300 delegates and featured 80 speakers. President of the World Packaging Organisation (WPO) Professor Pierre Plenaar opened the conference with his keynote address Global Perspective on Packaging: Fit for the Future. “Plastic has its place but that place is not in our environment” he stated, adding that “it needs to be kept in a circular economy where they can be recycled, reused or even composted. “But plastic is a necessity for keeping food safe, protected (especially during COVID) and for reducing food waste. But we do need to develop many solutions that reduce packaging volume and impact without compromising on protection.” According to Plenaar, the WPO envisions a world without waste by increasing plastic recycling and 26

identifying alternatives. He outlined the three main areas where the organisation has focused to reduce packaging waste: • Reduction of food waste • Reduction of packaging waste • Increasing packaging education “The WPO works with the UN and its Industrial Development Association where we have been focusing on helping developing countries to create systems to reduce the packaging and transition it to a recycling program.”

Shocked at plastic waste The focus for the WPO in 2021-2023 is the identification of key countries that require WPO assistance in achieving their Extended Producer Responsibility schemes. Plenaar said that he was “shocked” when he visited developing countries and saw the vast amounts of packaging on the beaches and in the oceans. “It’s much worse to see this in person than just looking at a photo.” He added that another area of focus for the WPO was mono-material packaging. According to the Food Packaging Forum, mono-material films are said to be ‘fully recyclable’ in contrast to ‘conventional multi-layer composite films [which are] difficult to recycle because of the need to

INSIDEWASTE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021

Pierre Plenaar was clear that packaging doesn’t belong in the environment.

separate the different film layers.’

Twenty-five per cent of food waste can be eliminated Plenaar cited the UN which claims that, of the existing figure of 35 per cent of food waste, up to 25 per cent of that could be eliminated through packaging. “We are concentrating on this through our Worldstar Award categories.” However, Plenaar noted that pushing against the WPO attempts to

curb packaging waste was a demand by consumers for convenience, which was illustrated by the growing amount of single-use packaging. “This is a heavy burden on the environment and we need to manage that waste better. We are facing a crisis due to the unresolved challenges of packaging recyclability and recycling. Our rates across the world are not great. In the US it is 28 per cent, Europe is much better at 40 per cent but in Asia the schemes are not in place yet. “Unfortunately, India has shelved plans for a full ban on single use plastics for now, but is pushing increased awareness campaigns and collection points. Meanwhile Latin America has relatively low commitments to sustainability with few regulations in place,” he added.

No Time to Waste A breakout session on Day 2 of the conference focused on multiple aspects of the circular economy, from consumer awareness, to economics, materials and design. Amcor Flexibles director, safety, quality, and sustainability Richard Smith stated succinctly what many in the WARR industry believe, in his presentation No Time to Waste, “because that’s exactly where we

Daily news updates at www.insidewaste.com.au

// AIP Conference 2020

are right now; we have no time to waste”. Drilling down into soft plastics, Smith noted that despite their ubiquitousness, these materials have been extraordinarily successful in reducing waste over the past 20-odd years, along with delivering significant environmental benefits. “Flexible packaging offers the ability to substantially reduce the amount of plastics we use because it replaces other more difficult waste material,” he said. However, he acknowledged that a paradox that lies within the flexibility of the material. “It’s lightweight with good barrier qualities and low cost with a low carbon footprint. But this has also created some of its challenges in that, at the end of its life, there is little mass and, as a result poses a challenge to the waste industry which depends on a large amount of mass to collect and recycle. “So, it has low value in collection at its end of life while also being hard to compete against the cheap cost of virgin materials,” he said. Smith also said, for soft plastics, mechanical recycling wasn’t going to be able to close the loop on its own, the industry must turn to chemical recycling. “This is the way where we can close the loop on soft plastics,” he said. “We need to consider that soft plastics are a very large portion of the plastics we use in Australia now.”

Huge opportunity Smith noted that another aspect is that the amount of mechanical recycling infrastructure which has been put into place has been very much around rigid packaging materials. “But against the paradox, there is a huge opportunity if we can turn that linear economy model into a circular economy,” he said. Smith added that the solution to the circularity problem has several dimensions, including the packaging itself, the wastecollection infrastructure, consumer behaviour, and the recycling infrastructure itself. He referred to Amcor’s involvement in the Holy Grail project in Europe, which aims to ensure a purer recycling stream using digital watermarks on packaging. Smith said that he considered targets to be an important tool in encouraging investment in the circular economy. “There is a strong future for us with the technology available; it’s just a

Detmold’s Tom Lunn explained that it was end markets that drive through to packaging design.

“Flexible packaging offers the ability to substantially reduce the amount of plastics we use because it replaces other more difficult waste material.” matter of a concerted effort across the supply chain, and that’s where the [2025 National Packaging] targets will come into play,” he added. Detmold Group general manager Tom Lunn presented on the role of fibre-based packaging in the circular economy. He said that because of the small size of the Australian market, a major issue is difficulty in finding the scale necessary for changes. “You really need to be clever and find some end markets (for recycled materials),” he said. Lunn explained that it was those

Daily news updates at www.insidewaste.com.au

end markets that drive through to packaging design, and the designers need to understand the consumer and their motivations. “We can’t operate alone anymore. You need partnerships and need to find willing partners who are moving in the same direction as you.” Nespresso Australia and Oceania technical quality manager Marta Fernandes said worldwide the company had been working with local recycling entities to find solutions to recycle coffee pods efficiently. “Eighty per cent of the aluminium

in our pods is recycled,” she said. “It is important to us that we are able to join forces with others, find local solutions for end-use materials.” Sleever International Australasia focuses on shrink sleeves and representative Olivier Clement said Sleever has been creating ways to make its products more sustainable. “We can support brands towards their ecological transition with no compromise on the sensorial identity of their products because, at the end of the day, everyone needs to sell,” he said. Clement also spoke about carbon footprint optimisation, which he said can be obtained through reducing the thickness of the materials and other methods. “We have also developed our next-generation equipment to reduce water and energy usage with higher performance,” he said. In the Keynote session on Day 4, Terracycle Australia and New Zealand general manager Jean Baillard led with the topic: Taking is from disposability to reusability with cutting-edge technology and design that will change the face of packaging as we know it. Baillard echoed the statement that many speakers had voiced at the conference that Terracycle was committed to eliminating the idea of waste. “We believe that every product can be recyclable and the question we ask is ‘how can we give that life to packaging?’ But the reality is different as today most packaging goes to landfill.”

Products are mostly recyclable - the question is: how to give that life to packaging?

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021 INSIDEWASTE

AIP Conference 2020 //

“In Australia, there are over 45,000 collection teams such as schools, offices and community centres that take part in our recycling initiatives. We run those product stewardship schemes for hundreds of products around the world.”

Jean Baillard said that the Tokyo Olympic podiums are being made by beauty products.

He explained that Terracycle works with the FMCG companies and retailers who will fund recycling.   “In Australia, there are over 45,000 collection teams such as schools, offices and community centres that take part in our recycling initiatives. We run those product stewardship schemes for hundreds of products around the world. “We also work with retailers such as Officeworks and we try to make recycling engaging and fun for consumers. For example, the Tokyo Olympic podiums are being made by beauty products that we have collected across the country,” he added.

Second life According to Baillard, once we look at giving products a second life we look at how we can incorporate waste into the plastic packaging and thereby close the loop. “We do that by working with CleanUp Associations around the world. The plastic that is sent to Terracycle is sorted, shredded, washed and turned into plastic pellets and then into products. “While making products recyclable is critically important, we also understand that we are not solving the root cause of waste which is disposability. This is why we created Loop, which is a zero-waste shopping platform which was launched in 2019 at the World Economic Forum. Loop is operating internationally 28

and Baillard said he expects it to launch in Australia in Woolworths in late 2021. “As the Loop service in Australia will originally be launched online, customers will pay a fee for the use of the returnable containers. They then place online shopping orders, as with any other ecommerce grocery service. The difference comes when their shopping is delivered. It arrives in a large, insulated box with individual products supplied in reusable containers. The box is used to store the empty containers, which are collected by Loop to be washed and used again; there are no wrappers or boxes and no single-use plastics,” he explained. Baillard explained that any recoverable content within used packaging will be reused or recycled using Loop. He expects the system will also enable people to use and buy products in brand-specific, customised packaging that can then be reused and refilled after it is collected and cleaned. He said that Terracycle was inspired by recycling models of the past such as the milkman collecting and delivering the milk. “So, by changing the ownership back to the consumer from the manufacturer, it unlocks so many new opportunities. The brand can either innovate or go back to their iconic format.” The Australian Food &

INSIDEWASTE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021

Grocery Council (AFGC) director, Sustainability, Barry Cosier spoke about Barriers and Enablers for developing a Packaging Circular Economy. “Packaging is getting a bad rap at the moment,” Cosier acknowledged, “so what actions can the industry take to create a packaging circular economy?” He said that it was critical that the issues and the problems that the industry is trying to address are understood at a deeper level. “There are two issues that are surrounding packaging at the moment which are quite distinct in their cause and behaviour and how we act and respond to them. “The first one is litter, which is any material ending up in the environment and predominantly what the consumer is seeing now is this litter ending up in the marine environment. So that becomes distinctly an environment issue. “But when you look at the global recycling crisis, that becomes an environmental and economic issue and that’s where the circular economy solution sits,” he said.

Litter risk Putting the litter issue into perspective, Cosier said that the total amount of litter entering the marine environment is 2.2 million tonnes

per annum with 9 million coming from the coastal regions such as river systems. “It’s important to note is that it’s estimated that close to 94 per cent is coming out of Asia and the African river systems. So, when companies are designing their packaging, they need to ask is it a litter risk? “The question is, what is the relevance of that to Australian packaging? And it’s really the perception of packaging which is driving the perception of all packaging not just plastics,” he said. Cosier referenced a 2019 survey by the University of Queensland in which people were asked to rank environmental issues. “They said that packaging waste is one of the biggest environmental issues. Although, that’s probably not accurate, it is the perception. “If you look at the global recycling crisis, the solution for this is to move from the linear take, make and dispose economy into a circular economy. A good example is the development of Vegemite in 1922 which was taken from one waste stream and used to create a new product. How do we now use that knowledge that we have had for 100 years and valorise a supply chain to make sure that we can get packaging back into the best form of packaging we can? iw

Marta Fernandes said that Nespresso has been working globally with local recycling entities to find solutions to recycle pods efficiently.

Daily news updates at www.insidewaste.com.au

World Class Facility Construction With a specialist builder such as Total Construction you can be assured your next waste facility project goes without a hitch. Contact us today to find out how we can help with construction planning for your next project.

| Call: (02) 9746 9555 | Visit: totalconstruction.com.au

Return-It is Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading operator of cash-back container depots, working across NSW, the ACT, QLD and WA

AUSTRALIAN OWNED AND O P E R AT E D WORKING WITH LOCAL PARTNERS AND CHARITIES RETURN POINTS CRE ATI N G J OB OPPORTUNITIES ACT Network Operator | QLD Major Operator | WA Major Operator

www.return-it.com.au

// FOGO

How FOGO is driving real reform in Australia By Mike Ritchie PERTH, ADELAIDE AND MELBOURNE have now all adopted food organics and garden organics (FOGO) collection from households, as a means of achieving the national 80 per cent diversion from landfill target (by 2030) and real greenhouse gas reductions. NSW regional Councils have been early adopters along with Penrith in Sydney. The NSW Department Planning Industry and Environment (DPIE) with industry consultant Mark Rawson has conducted an excellent review of FOGO performance across 34 Councils in NSW. The report provides some useful insights into FOGO performance. I re-analysed the data to look at individual Council performance (rather than average performance) because averages don’t tell the true story of who is performing well. I thought it would be instructive to summarise it for readers. The Councils were anonymised by DPIE so I don’t know who they are. (But readers from Councils will be able to identify themselves from the codes below.)

Average performance is a poor indicator of the trends in FOGO • There is a wide range of performance in FOGO diversion from landfill and contamination rates. FOGO is new with 15 of the 34 Councils having had FOGO for less than one year or were still in a trial period. • The best performers have all had FOGO in place for more than a year and have had time to bed in the system with education and engagement.

The Capture rates • The best performing Councils are achieving 98 per cent + Garden (GO) and 70 per cent + Food (FO) capture effectiveness. The three “best performing Councils” U, N, L and G (refer Figure 1). These have average FO capture rates 78, 50, 57 and 61 per cent respectively. • Overall efficiency of the best performers including other organics is above 85 per cent and as high as 89 per cent. • Many Councils accept material other

people get confused with yellow top bin systems. FOGO on the other hand is simple and people seem to care.

The best performers • If you are Councils Y, K, U, N, L or G you have bragging rights. Let me know who you are and I will write a follow-up article on the reasons for your successes. Then we can all learn. • If you are at the lower end of the pack there is help available. DPIE is developing an education campaign and MRA has worked with many of the top performers. Fig 1. FOGO collection efficiency (FO, GO and Other eligible organics).

than FO and GO in the service. More than 25 per cent of the material captured was “other organics” (such as wood, cardboard and newsprint) but still accepted in the FOGO service. • All Councils are achieving over 90 per cent GO capture rates. • 25 Councils are capturing less than 50 per cent of the FO. These are mainly new services (less than one year) or trial services. Generally, councils which have installed FOGO services but are capturing less than 50 per cent of the food are missing a huge opportunity to save money. They are bearing the costs already of collecting weekly FOGO but are sending more than 50 per cent of the food to landfill and still paying landfill fees (and levies) on this. A community engagement program of the sort run by Albury Halve Waste would lift the food capture rates. Ranking the above data for FO efficiency specifically, provides a clearer picture on the opportunity to improve performance. Specifically, Councils on the left hand side of Figure 2 (T, F, C, E, O – through to N) would benefit from more extensive community engagement programs. They are all collecting FOGO bins at higher costs, yet recovering less than 40 per cent of the available FO. This is mainly because the services are new and people are getting used to them. On the positive they are recovering 90 per cent+ of GO. • Six Councils are capturing above 60 per cent FO which is excellent.

Daily news updates at www.insidewaste.com.au

The conclusions

The top three are Councils Y, K and U. U is achieving 78 per cent FO capture, the best in NSW. (I will be fascinated to find out who these Councils are. Let me know!)

The Contamination rates • The best performers all have contamination levels below two per cent and as low as 0.04 per cent. • The average contamination across all Councils is only 2.2 per cent Average contamination 2.2 per cent FOGO is compared to 10 per cent average contamination rate in kerbside recycling. I often hear people say that FOGO will be heavily contaminated. It isn’t. It is one-fifth of the kerbside recycling contamination rate. I suspect the reason for this is it is simple. People know what organics is and what it isn’t. That is not true for kerbside container recycling. There are so many different arrangements that

• Three bin FOGO is rapidly changing our recycling performance. Nationally we recycle 56 per cent of materials generated. The target is 80 per cent by 2030. That has been endorsed by the Federal, State, Territory Governments and local Councils. • 60 per cent of what a household generates is FOGO material. • Introducing FOGO is the single most important action a council can take to contribute to the 80 per cent target. (Followed by EfW). • Organics currently going to landfill generate 9 MT/yr of landfill greenhouse gas emissions. That is 2.7 per cent of our national GHG emissions. • Our farmers need the compost more than our landfills do. iw Mike Ritchie is managing director of MRA Consulting.

Fig 2. FO efficiency by Council

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021 INSIDEWASTE

Wastewater //

Industrial wastewaters eaten by electrochemical process

Julia Ciarlini Junger Soares showcases her work at the University of Sydney.

By Inside Waste A TEAM OF ENGINEERS from the University of Sydney may be one step closer to cleaning up heavily contaminated industrial wastewater streams. By using electricity to clean up heavily polluted industrial wastewater the team hopes the findings will help wineries, pharmaceutical manufacturers and other industries that must comply with strict wastewater regulations. The research from the School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering has focused on an electrochemical oxidation process with the aim of cleaning up complex wastewater that contains a toxic cocktail of chemical pollutants. According to Julia Ciarlini Jungar Soares who is completing a PhD in Chemical and Biomolecular 32

Engineering, “Our study, published in Algal Research involved industrial wastewater that had been heavily contaminated with a cocktail of organic and inorganic species during a biofuel production process.”

wastewater with electricity using specialised electrodes. They discharged electricity, then drove oxidation reactions near the electrode surfaces, transforming the organic contaminants into harmless gasses, ions or minerals.

“Wastewater is a significant issue for our environment, as well as for many industries who use substantial volumes of water in their processes, such as in reactions, transport, and washing and cooling. Finding suitable solutions for reuse or disposal is often very challenging and costly.” Powerful process The wastewater, which contained carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus, was generated in a pilot plant, designed by the team for the production of biofuels using naturally abundant microalgae. The process involved treating

INSIDEWASTE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021

“We have employed an incredibly powerful process that eliminates even the most persistent non-biodegradable pollutants, such as pharmaceuticals and pesticides, as well as various classes of organic compounds that can be found in many industrial effluents,” Soares added.

“The process is relatively simple, does not require the addition of chemicals or severe operation conditions, and does not produce additional waste streams. “Wastewater is a significant issue for our environment, as well as for many industries who use substantial volumes of water in their processes, such as in reactions, transport, and washing and cooling. Finding suitable solutions for reuse or disposal is often very challenging and costly. “The electrochemical method that we used can be readily applied to industries that must comply with strict regulations for wastewater disposal, such as pulp and paper processing, wineries, as well as pharmaceutical production facilities. “Worldwide, researchers are investigating methods for the development of biofuels from algae. Developing alternatives for the

Daily news updates at www.insidewaste.com.au

// Wastewater

A 2017 UNESCO report found that the opportunities from exploiting wastewater as a resource were vast.

Flagship Water Report By Julia Ciarlini Soares

treatment and reuse of this industrial effluent is a hot research topic and can bring opportunities for energy and resource recovery within a circular bio-economy framework.”

Vast opportunities The team will soon carry out research focused on specific contaminants to better understand the chemical transformations that take place during electrochemical oxidation and will

upscale the process. A 2017 UNESCO report found that the opportunities from exploiting wastewater as a resource were vast, and that safely managed wastewater is an affordable and sustainable source of water, energy, nutrients and other recoverable materials. The research was supported by a University of Sydney Engineering and Information Technology Research Scholarship. iw

The United Nations World Water Development Report (WWDR), is the UNWATER flagship report on water. The review gives an overall picture of the state, use and management of the world’s freshwater resources and aims to provide decision-makers with tools to formulate and implement sustainable water policies. The WWDR was founded in response to a call from the UN Commission on Sustainable Development (CSD) to produce a UN system-wide periodic global overview of the status (quantity and quality), use and management of freshwater resources. In 2015, countries adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Universal, inclusive and indivisible, the Agenda calls for action by all countries to improve the lives of people everywhere, and achievement of a large number of the SDGs is dependent upon the access to safe and sufficient water. In effect, the progress of a country towards the SDGs can partly be measured by assessing that country’s water situation. As such, the WWDR is part of an ongoing worldwide assessment project to measure progress towards achieving the goals of sustainable development set out by the United Nations. According to the UN, it belongs to a lineage of commitments and efforts made in the international community to resolve the world’s water problems, an effort that dates back several decades. The WWDR seeks to answer the questions being asked by the international community: how far have we come towards meeting the targets of sustainable development? How far have we yet to go? What actions can we take to make the path smoother, and faster?

Recycling Starts Here. Watch the video:

+61 7 3867 5555

industrial.johnsonscreens.au@aqseptence.com

www.johnsonscreens.com

Johnson Screens® has partnered with Colubris Cleantech to bring tailor-made solutions to your waste flows. Offering a range of solutions in solid waste recycling and wastewater treatment, Johnson Screens® can help you create value from waste. Trommel Screens

Sorting Lines

Windshifters

Dissolved Air Flotation Units (DAF)

Sorting Cabins

Up-Flow Washers

Inside Waste Half Page Ad (PRINT).indd 1

Daily news updates at www.insidewaste.com.au

17/11/2020 1:16:26 PM

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021 INSIDEWASTE

Product Stewardship //

Prime Minister, Scott Morrison visited the Visy Recycling Plant at Murarrie in Brisbane along with the Minister for Waste Reduction Trevor Evans and the Federal Member for Bonner, Ross Vasta MP (in whose electorate the Visy plant is situated).

Government turbocharges Product Stewardship By Inside Waste

Support for industry led schemes

THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT is investing $1 million in the establishment of a new Product Stewardship Centre of Excellence (PSCE) that will play a key role in driving Australia’s circular economy towards an eighty per cent recovery rate across all waste streams by 2030. The office of Assistant Minister for Waste Reduction and Environmental Management, Trevor Evans told Inside Waste that, as part of its campaign to reduce pressure on the environment and create jobs by placing waste and recycling on the national agenda, the Government will also bring together research and industry groups to foster innovation. He said that the new body will enable all participants to access best practice around Product Stewardship to accelerate outcomes. The Government’s seed funding of the PSCE is also expected to shorten the maturation stages of the schemes from seven years to less than three.

Minister for the Environment Sussan Ley, said the new PSCE would provide mentoring and best practice guidance, educate and engage business, and facilitate industry linkages to support national industry-led schemes. “Product stewardship needs to be part of the way we do business, influencing the ways we design and manufacture, and the ways we collect and recycle components at the end of a product’s life. Already our $20 million National Product Stewardship Investment Fund is considering the potential of more than 100 schemes from solar panels, to electrical and electronic products, batteries, carpets and mattresses, office furniture, agricultural equipment, vehicles, and entire waste streams such as plastics, carbon fibre composites and food industry waste. “As we determine funding for individual Product Stewardship Schemes, the PSCE will be there as an expert body to provide mentoring and deliver wider industry support to both the new and expanded existing schemes,” Ley said

INSIDEWASTE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021

The $1 million grant is provided under the National Product Stewardship Investment Fund as seed funding, bringing together the University of Technology Sydney’s Institute for Sustainable Futures, the Australian Industry Group and Cox Inall Communications. Minister Evans explained that the PSCE would lead to a significant increase in the number of industry-led schemes that seek and achieve government accreditation. “As the Morrison Government advances its new recycling and waste reduction legislation, and as we prepare for the release of a national plastics plan later this year, the PSCE will be there to help industries and companies step forward,” Evans said. “Product stewardship is one of the most successful strategies to ensure waste is valued as a resource. The new PSCE will significantly improve overall recycling rates by supporting both existing and new product stewardship schemes. We want to see the number and scale of industry-led product stewardship initiatives accelerated as we turbo-charge a $1 billion transformation of the Australian recycling industry.”

Waste as a resource UTS Institute for Sustainable Futures, deputy director Professor Damien Giurco added, “As a university focused on delivering impact for society, UTS is delighted to be co-hosting the PSCE in collaboration with the Australian Industry Group and Cox Inall. The Centre will engage and equip new industries to adopt product stewardship and support excellence in existing product stewardship schemes and programs.” Australian Industry Group, Chief Executive Innes Willox, said, “Better management of waste as a resource helps build not just a sustainable community, but more competitive industry supply chains. Ai Group is pleased to be working on this initiative to lift industry capability, and we look forward to connecting businesses to it when it launches in early 2021”. The government will also be releasing a National Plastics Plan before the end of this year. iw For more information on product stewardship, see www.environment.gov. au/protection/waste-resource-recovery/ product-stewardship.

Daily news updates at www.insidewaste.com.au

// Waste To Energy

Johnson urged to ditch UK EfW expansion By Inside Waste A GROUP of environmental organisations has told the UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson that net-zero carbon emissions cannot be achieved if he allows continue development of energy-fromwaste (EfW) plants. In a letter to the PM, Friends of the Earth, Greenpeace, UK Without Incineration Network, Extinction Rebellion and others have called for a law that would require the waste sector to decarbonise by 2035. Letter co-author Rembrandt Koppelaar said: “Without a change in Government policy, we can expect largescale expansion of EfW incineration to

lock us into an additional 10 million tonnes of CO2 emissions a year by 2030, primarily from the burning of plastics.” Koppelaar said the EfW sector’s carbon impact was 7.4 million tonnes, and last year gave rise to 13 per cent of the greenhouse gas emissions associated with electricity generation, while providing only 2.4 per cent of the UK’s electricity.

Misleading analysis But trade body the Environmental Services Association (ESA) said the letter showed “a deeply flawed and misleading analysis of energy recovery in the United Kingdom” and failed to recognise that EfW had helped to

significantly reduce carbon emissions from residual waste treatment by displacing waste volumes from landfill. Organisations supporting the letter said reuse, repair, remanufacturing and recycling should be used instead of incineration, with the aim of slashing the UK’s total CO2 emissions by 15 per cent by 2030. The letter argued that large-scale waste incineration impaired the transition to a circular economy because councils become contractually obligated to continue burning materials so that EfW plants could operate at capacity. Millions of tonnes of materials that could be recycled or composted was instead burnt. iw

Boris Johnson has been warned of alleged dangers of energy-from-waste (EfW) plants.

Masdar and Tribe JV to develop Australian WTE schemes By Inside Waste

FORMER Australian Defence Minister, Christopher Pyne, and Abdullah Al Subousi, UAE Ambassador to Australia have announced the establishment of a joint venture (JV) in Australia to develop utility-scale energy-from-waste (EfW) projects. The JV is between UAE-headquartered clean energy company Masdar and advisory and development firmTribe Infrastructure. According to a statement from Pyne and Subousi, each year approximately 27 million tonnes of waste is landfilled in Australia, yet there are currently no utility-scale energy from waste plants operating in the country. As a result, they consider Australia as offering an attractive market for investment in the EfW as part of a wider push to help decarbonise the country’s economy. “Tribe and Masdar have the distinction of being the first companies to ink contracts that actively engage in business activity in Australia as part of the Australia UAE Business Council,” Pyne said. “The joint venture agreement between Masdar and Tribe for turning waste into energy is only the beginning of the relationship that the two companies will have across Australia.”

Masdar and Tribe acquired a 40 per cent stake in the East Rockingham Waste to Energy project in Perth, Western Australia early this year.

Al Subousi added that, “Masdar has been a great champion of the energyfrom-waste sector. We are honoured to see Masdar and Tribe come together to establish a joint venture company and I hope this can pave the way for future collaboration in additional sectors.”

Excellent long-term potential Masdar and Tribe are both founding members of the Australia United Arab Emirates Business Council, which was recently established to increase collaboration between the two countries. Masdar chief executive Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi said the Australian energy-from-waste sector “provides excellent potential in the longterm” and added that “the signing of

Daily news updates at www.insidewaste.com.au

this agreement will further support Australia’s roadmap towards a lowcarbon future”. Tribe’s CEO Peter McCreanor added that, “Energy from waste is safe, reliable and affordable and we’re pleased to be at the forefront of bringing this technology to Australia. We look forward to delivering sustainable waste management solutions that provide superior environmental outcomes and make sound economic sense.”

Investment in East Rockingham In January 2020, Masdar and Tribe announced that they had acquired a 40 per cent stake in the East Rockingham Waste to Energy project in Perth, Western Australia.

Construction on the $511 million greenfield facility, which is located in the Rockingham Industry Zone, 40 kilometres south of Perth, is ongoing and the plant is expected to be operational in late 2022. When completed, East Rockingham WTE will process 300,000 tonnes per year of non-recyclable residual municipal, commercial and industrial waste and up to 30,000 tonnes of biosolids per year. The facility will also recover approximately 70,000 TPA of bottom ash, which will be processed for use in roadbase and other construction materials. The facility will generate 29MW of baseload renewable energy, enough to power more than 36,000 homes, and displace more than 300,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions per year. In October 2020, Opal Australian Paper and SUEZ Australia and New Zealand also announced that Masdar and Tribe had joined them as additional equity partners for the development of the Maryvale EfW facility in Victoria. The Maryvale EfW project will divert approximately 325,000 tonnes of nonrecyclable residual waste from landfill and reuse it to generate steam and electricity to replace natural gas and coal fired electricity. iw

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021 INSIDEWASTE

Waste Spotlight //

Lessons from a Waste Warrior By Inside Waste The Waste Contractors & Recyclers Association of NSW executive director, Tony Khoury tells Inside Waste what bought him into the WARR industry and what keeps him here.

Khoury said that he enjoys working through issues to solve problems with a member or a group of members.

What was your first role involving waste and resource recovery? In the mid-1960s loading rubbish into the back of my older brother’s ute, after which he drove us to the Auburn tip. This long-closed landfill is now the site of the Japanese Gardens (and as was the common practice in those days, we drove around unrestrained in the back of the ute). Also, throughout the 1960s, in our Lidcombe backyard, my Dad had one of the many thermal waste reduction plants (an old 44-gallon drum, that we would throw rubbish in and set on fire almost weekly). My first paid job in the waste management industry was in 1991 with Pacific Waste Management, where the state manager David Moffett taught me about the importance of productivity. Lesson number one was a lecture on not driving past one tip to get to another. Later on in the week, I decided to apply my new found productivity learnings to the concept of ‘double-shifting the trucks’. I then had to survive a near death interrogation from an irate operations manager. What’s the favourite part of your role at WCRA? I enjoy the scope in my role at WCRA that allows me the opportunity of working through issues to solve problems with a member or a group of members. I also have a lot of variety in my role, but the opportunity of delivering training to the workers is often very rewarding. How has WCRA changed since you initially became involved? In 2003 a significant percentage of my time at WCRA was spent on industrial relations issues. That problem was solved by the modern award and employment relations reforms that were passed in 2010. In 2008, then NSW Premier Morris Iemma increased the waste levy of $40 by $10 per tonne pa plus CPI. The current waste levy is now $146 per tonne, an increase of 365 per cent over 14 years. Today much of my time is spent on waste management and EPA issues. 36

Describe some of the achievements that you are most proud? I take a lot of satisfaction from the wonderful support that I receive from our WCRA members, sponsors and the executive. This has allowed us to build the membership and our relevance. The fact that we own our own premises makes it much easier to hold meetings and conduct training sessions. The negotiations that resulted in one national modern award (the Waste Management Award 2020). This award covers employment obligations for the employers and the workers in our industry. At the time we encountered fierce attacks from both Victoria and Queensland. The Australian Standard for mobile garbage bins, where I chaired the development of the standard in the

INSIDEWASTE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021

mid-2000’s. It is now well accepted across the country that we use yellow lids for co-mingled recycling, red lids for general waste and green lids for green waste. I also take a lot of pride from my negotiations with Sydney Water that occurred around seven years ago, when WCRA argued long and hard and achieved a back-dated CPI increase for all grease trap waste processing. At the time, this resulted in over $1.2 million in refunds to waste processing facilities. In the early 1990s as the general manager of Clinical Waste Australia (now Cleanaway Daniels), I was involved in overseeing the upgrade of the incinerator with the installation of an air quality control and scrubbing system. Without this upgrade, the

facility would have been shut down by the NSW EPA. To this day, the incinerator remains operational and the only clinical waste incineration facility in NSW. My strangest moment at WCRA Around the 2007-2008 years Transpacific Industries (TPI) which owned Cleanaway prior to 2008 was acquiring a lot of waste business operations across the country. At the time, I was approached by one of TPI’s senior executives for a copy of WCRA’s membership list. When I refused, he indicated that TPI would just have to buy the Association. On contacting our president at the time Jim Perry for advice, he told me “to show him the door” (or words to that effect). iw

Daily news updates at www.insidewaste.com.au

// Young Professional

A deep commitment to changing waste behaviour “I manage Envirocom’s waste education contract with Orange City Council. The Council provides a FOGO service to residents but excludes the use of compostable bags with this service. “Although this means contamination is very low, it can be difficult to encourage residents to use the FOGO service for their household food waste, as for many people this is a big change in disposal habits. “It is crucial that food waste is diverted from landfill, to avoid excess methane emissions and potentially toxic leachate, while simultaneously providing a valuable resource in the form of compost,” she said.

A COVID re-think

When Jo Smith was offered the chance to enter the waste sector, she leapt at it.

By Inside Waste IN THIS MONTH’S Young Professional article, we profile EnviroCom Australia’s Environmental Consultant, NSW Jo Smith. A degree in Conservation Biology and Zoology at the University of Western Australia combined with a passion for the natural environment were two key factors in leading Smith into the world of waste and resource recovery. She told Inside Waste that new technology and educational approaches which enable society to think about its attitude to waste and the environmental and human impacts were deeply inspiring for her. “When I was offered the chance to enter the waste sector, I leapt at it. Not only for the opportunity to make real, positive change at a local level, but to view and measure that change, knowing that my efforts and those of the community could make a difference. “I was also very keen on being able to work within the close-knit, supportive EnviroCom team and learn from experienced supervisors and colleagues,” she said.

Co-ordinating in the Pilbara Smith’s first full-time role in a wasterelated sector was as association coordinator with the Care For Hedland Environmental Association. Based in Port Hedland, in the Pilbara region of WA, she coordinated staff and volunteers to assist with conservation and environmental programs. These included sea turtle monitoring during turtle nesting season, litter clean ups, recycle days and shorebird watching events. “It was here that I first gained experience and exposure to the world of waste. Having run a monthly ‘recycle day’ as the Town of Port Hedland didn’t have a kerbside recycling service, I learned more about the recycling industry and its challenges in a regional area. I also had the opportunity to liaise with companies such as Cleanaway and Toxfree, and the Waste Services Manager of the Town of Port Hedland,” she added

Smith is candid when she says that COVID-19 forced herself and the EnviroCom team to “think outside the box” about waste education programs. “After a several weeks of working from home when the pandemic first hit and rethinking some of the initiatives that were originally planned, we came up with new ideas. We started focusing on delivering webinars, creating media campaigns (with focus on events such as National Recycling Week and Plastic Free July) and I even started making cartoon videos for various councils with their preferred waste education messages. “The videos were fun to make and a great new skill that I now have under my belt, plus they have been effective in communicating information to the general public, and councils have received positive feedback from residents.

However, COVID-19 had a significant impact on Smith, who wasn’t able to visit family and friends in Perth. “I feel lucky to have a permanent position with EnviroCom, and since moving to Orange in November 2019, I hope to stay for several years to build up my skills, meet fellow waste educators and assist new staff joining the team. At some point in the future I would like to spend time in Germany or France, ideally working in waste education. If Smith was the Prime Minister or Environment Minister, her top three priorities for the WARR industry would be to mandate that all products be made from recycled materials. She believes this would expand the market for domestic recycling product and reduce Australia’s dependence on raw, virgin materials. “This could apply to products across all streams (MSW, C&I, C&D) and bring about an expansion of current recycling technology and demand. I would also streamline production, particularly with regard to plastics, and eliminate the need for multiple plastic types as well as focusing on diverting organic waste from landfill, as the methane emitted from landfill contributes to three per cent of Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions. “The use of commercial composting facilities or even home composting can make a huge difference to the quantity of waste entering landfill. “However, technology is becoming more advanced and it’s great to see fantastic solutions popping up all the time,” she added. iw

Jo Smith deep in a waste segregation audit in Griffith, NSW.

Challenge to change behaviour Smith told Inside Waste that the most challenging aspect of her current role was igniting behaviour change around waste and recycling.

Daily news updates at www.insidewaste.com.au

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021 INSIDEWASTE

Waste Education //

Managing aerosol cans right

One of the more dangerous forms of contamination in yellow top bins is actually marked as recyclable - aerosol cans.

By Alex Serpo TYPICALLY, recycling education programs focus on putting the right items in the recycling bin because it’s good for the environment, but consider also, a recycling facility is a workplace. This means that many dangerous items which end up in recycling bins need to be sorted by hand, so part of recycling is also enhancing the working conditions of recycling workers. Surprisingly, one of the more dangerous forms of contamination in yellow top bins is actually marked as recyclable aerosol cans. Across Australia, the waste and recycling industry would like all Local Governments and Shires to remove aerosol cans as ‘recyclable’ from their waste education programs. I will explain why. The Australian waste management industry has experienced many tragic fires. Prominent examples include the SKM and Bradbury’s sites in metro Melbourne in 2019, which splashed across the front pages of The Age. But beyond these headline tragedies, there have also been many other examples of fires damaging or destroying recycling facilities including material recovery facilities in Perth and Northern NSW. Waste fires can also occur in trucks and are a unique risk of recycling as the 38

trucks are full of a highly flammable material – plastic and paper.

Fire hazard When a hot load (code for a fire risk) is detected in a waste truck, the normal procedure is to dump the material in the nearest safe location, typically by the side of the road, creating a huge clean up job. After trucks, waste fires are clearly a risk to workers, and have the potential to destroy the recycling facilities upon which we all depend. But beyond these obvious damages, waste fires have more subtle effects including dramatically driving up insurance costs for all in the industry, health costs to residents around them and reputational damage to the industry including investors. There are many possible approaches to mitigating fire. These include installing best-practice fire control systems and minimising the size of stockpiles. Given the huge risk posed by fire, industry continues to in invest in, and is committed to these changes. Unfortunately, these mitigation efforts will be ineffective if the waste stream contains sources of ignition - or problem items which cause fires. There are many fire sources in the waste stream including lithiumion batteries, flares and (mostly)

INSIDEWASTE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021

spent lighters. All warrant attention, but here I would like to focus on one important ignition source: aerosol cans. Aerosol cans contain flammable propellant gases - typically propane, and/or butane. When crushed in compactor trucks or by wheel loaders on tipping floors, these steel or aluminium cans can spark and cause a fireball.

Extensive evidence The Victorian Waste Management Association (VWMA), in partnership with the Waste Contractors and Recyclers Association of New South Wales (WCRA NSW), has collected extensive evidence including videos showing aerosol cans causing fires in waste trucks and facilities. Unfortunately, while batteries and spent lighters clearly don’t belong in the recycling bin, and are marked that way, aerosol cans today are marked as recyclable, and many local governments still include them as recyclable in their waste education. Instead, aerosol cans should be directed to hazardous household waste collection in a similar manner to other gas bottles, paints, solvents and other flammable items. Proponents from the packaging industry have argued that if the can is

completely emptied, it can be recycled. However, it is the experience of waste providers that this instruction is not followed with enough consistency to ensure the fire risk is prevented. Packaging companies have an avenue to ensure their aerosol cans become recyclable - simply do not use a flammable propellant. Until this is the case, the risk of an aerosol causing a fire in a truck full of compacted paper and plastic or at a recycling facility far outweighs the value of the very small amount of metals recovered from the can. In noting and accepting this argument, Sustainability Victoria has agreed to remove aerosol cans as recyclable from its statewide kerbside recycling education program. The risk posed by aerosol cans is also under consideration by other State agencies. However, waste education is ultimately in the hands of Australia’s hard-working Local Governments and Shires, which directly face residents. It is for this reason we ask all Local Governments to assist by removing aerosol cans as recyclable in their waste education. iw Alex Serpo is the executive officer at the Victorian Waste Management Association (VWMA).

Daily news updates at www.insidewaste.com.au

// Circular Economy

An evidence-based approach to the circular economy Contributed by Edge Environment IN THE EARLY DAYS of corporate sustainability, strategies were a lot different to what we tend to see today. Focus areas were often based on gut feeling, simply low-hanging fruit, or what competitors were doing “plus a little bit”. Hard targets were few and far between. Fast forward to today and things are very different. As sustainability has been mainstreamed into corporate strategy, measurement and metrics have become crucial. Likewise, roadmaps are increasingly ‘science-based’ and address the most material aspects of an organisations impacts, not just those that are most visible. Targets are aligned to overarching frameworks such as the Sustainable Development Goals and Planetary Boundaries. The change has been welcome because all of the science tells us that meaningful action on sustainability is urgent. Sustainability strategies must quantify and focus on reducing an organisation’s most significant impacts - both in terms of the size of the impact and the importance of that impact for humankind living within our environmental limits. Which brings us to circular economy. The term is not new, but it is experiencing a renaissance at the moment. Companies are increasingly looking to develop circular economy strategies and governments are underpinning policies with circular principles. But with all this circular economy activity has come a concerning trend that mirrors the lack of data and evidence of sustainability strategies’ early years. Is this because no metrics and measurement for the circular economy exist? We know this is not the case. From general methods like material flow analysis and life cycle assessment, to tools like Circulytics, Edge’s own Circularity Tool and standards like the Global Reporting Initiative. We know that metrics and measurement options are available.

situations. How do we move forward with the information that we have? What makes a good metric and how can you choose what to focus on? Here are our suggestions: • Measure what matters – the metrics you choose should capture information on your most significant impacts. These are determined by both the size of the impact and the importance of the environmental or social issue for overall wellbeing. • Know what your metric covers – many metrics will give you part but not the full picture. They might tell you the amount of resources that avoid landfill but not whether those resources are put to their highest use. Or how much environmental impact is incurred through reprocessing the material for its second life. • Know when to use it – different metrics will be more applicable at different stages of the journey or at different levels of analysis. When assessing the overarching

strategic direction, a circularity gap measurement may be helpful. When evaluating different initiatives, greater detail of material flows as well as environmental and economic impacts may be required. • Ensure it is “circular” – at a minimum, circularity metrics need to consider the full lifecycle of a product or service. Talking about recycling rates in isolation as diverting waste from landfill is not the same as circularity. Recycling rates may form part of the circular story, but they are not sufficient on their own. • Make it actionable – the metric should deliver information that improves the impact. • Make it data-centred and replicable – in order to measure progress over time the data needs to be meaningful, accessible and the calculations able to be rerun. Edge recently adopted “catalysing change through Science, Strategy and Storytelling” because we believe that those three pillars are non-negotiables

in sustainability. With the circular economy, as of today, there’s a whole lot of storytelling, and a sprinkling of strategy, but not nearly enough science. ALCAS has started a project to help guide circular economy practitioners looking to insert some rigour into their work. And Planet Ark have made circular economy metrics a focus area for the new ACE Hub. We are also partnering with the Green Building Council of Australia to help define the circular metrics and measurement processes most relevant to the property industry. Underpinning all our work is robust data and measurement that quantifies impacts of products and services across the whole lifecycle. We simply can’t afford for the circular economy to be a new buzzword that distracts us from real action. To avoid pitfalls that sustainability strategies succumbed to in their early years, metrics and measurement must underpin circular economy from the very start. iw

With the circular economy there’s a whole lot of storytelling and a sprinkling of strategy, but not nearly enough science.

Lightweight strategy Why then are we seeing organisations engage in ‘lightweight’ circular economy strategy development. We believe it is due to a lack of consensus on which metrics to apply in which Daily news updates at www.insidewaste.com.au

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021 INSIDEWASTE

Capabilities Statements //

CSS Recycling Equipment Solutions Company Overview: With 20 years of experience in our unique Australian and New Zealand region, CSS Recycling Equipment customises waste, organics, and scrap metal processing solutions, by taking a collaborative and consultative approach with their clients. From the provision of ad hoc machinery and technology to fit an existing processing line, up to complete plant and materials handling solutions, CSS Recycling Equipment designs each solution specific to client’s requirements. CSS Recycling Equipment takes a comprehensive approach, starting with on site reviews of existing processes, machinery and capability, analysis of client objectives, challenges, and end materials. By working closely with clients and with exclusive global suppliers to curate the best possible solutions, CSS becomes a trusted strategic partner, integrating technology, improving processes and bottom line results. The technologies represented by

CSS Recycling Equipment Solutions are sourced from around the world, are proven and reliable and have been tried and tested in our region. CSS Recycling Equipment specialises in processing all types of materials from C&D to C&I, from MSW to FOGO, Biomass and Wood, Compost and to hard to process waste. Products and Services: Specialising in all aspects of reduction, separation and recycling technology: • Complete consultative and collaborative plant design and delivery • Fuel Preparation Technology • Shredding • Screening • Air Separation • Baling and Shear Baling • Plastics Washing and Preparation • FOGO • Waste to Energy technology Brands: • 3Tek Scrap Metal technologies (USA) • Beier Machinery (China)

• Ecostar Dynamic Screens (Italy) • Ecohog Air Separation Technologies (Northern Ireland) • Hammel Recyclingtechnik (Germany) • Jono Enviro (China) • Lindner Recyclingtech (Austria) • Vezzani (Italy) Core Capabilities: Collaborate, consult, design, deliver and the supply of high quality equipment and plant solutions for C&D, C&I, Biomass, Organics, Wood Waste, FOGO, MSW, Scrap Metal industries. Source innovative and strategic solutions both within and outside of our stable of equipment solutions, always with the client’s outcome as our focus.

Utilise our global relationships and local knowledge to deliver positive business outcomes for our clients and continually improving environmental solutions for Australia and New Zealand. Specialists in: • hard to process waste • mobile and static processing solutions • manufacture of custom components • high quality and on budget projects Contact Details: CSS Recycling Solutions PO Box 359, Dee Why NSW 2099 Phone: 1800 644 978 Email: info@cssequipment.com.au Web: www.cssequipment.com.au

Komptech CEA Company Overview: Komptech CEA is the Australasian distributor of Komptech machinery and systems for the treatment and processing of solid waste and organics waste materials for recovery and recycling. Our product range includes over 30 different types of both mobile and stationary machines that cover all key processes in modern waste processing including: • Single-shaft and dual-shaft industrial shredders • Compost windrow turners for commercial operations • Star screen and trommel screen machines • Material separation equipment including windsifters, ballistic separators and stone contaminant separators • Stationary recycling system solutions including shredders, separators and screening machines Brands: • Diamond Z • Screenpod • Trackstack

• Rowan • Komptech Core Capabilities: With a specialized product portfolio that includes over thirty different types of machines covering all key processes in modern waste handling, a consultative guiding approach to solution development for customers, and full service aftersales support and parts, Komptech CEA has become a leading supplier to the recycling and waste processing industry. Providing customer value is our focus as we strive to be the industry’s technological leader through continual innovation. Komptech CEA is dedicated to working with you to help you solve your waste problems and identify opportunities with comprehensive, detailed solutions driven by world-class technology. Contact Details: Sydney 6 Skyline Crescent Horningsea Park, NSW 2171 1300 352 378 www.komptechcea.com.au

INSIDEWASTE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021

Melbourne 109 Merola Way Campbellfield, VIC 3061 1300 352 378 www.komptechcea.com.au Brisbane 103 Axis Place Larapinta, QLD 4110 1300 352 378 www.komptechcea.com.au Adelaide 260 Cormack Rd Wingfield, SA 5013 1300 352 378 www.komptechcea.com.au Perth 230-232 Welshpool Rd Welshpool, WA 6106

1300 352 378 www.komptechcea.com.au Auckland 96 Gavin Street Mt Wellington 1060 0800 435 269 www.komptechcea.com.au Key Contacts: Craig Cosgrove Product Manager 0417 320 082 c.cosgrove@cea.net.au Simon Humphris Product Manager 0478 196 263 s.humphris@cea.net.au

Daily news updates at www.insidewaste.com.au

// Capabilities Statements

FOCUS enviro Company Overview: FOCUS Enviro is Australia’s exclusive distributor of the world-renowned UNTHA shredding technology. With more than 9,000 shredders in operation globally, UNTHA is known for manufacturing robust shredders engineered with low wear, low maintenance, and low whole life running costs in mind. This results in maximum machine performance, environmental gain and – importantly – return on investment. Products and Services: • The globally-acclaimed XR waste shredder, available as a stationary or mobile machine • The four shaft RS shredder for various volume reduction and recycling applications – particle homogeneity guaranteed • The LR shredder – the ultimate workhorse of wood shredding • The industry-proven LRK plastic shredder • UNTHA Genius – the condition

monitoring tool (the shredder’s brain) • Configurable customer support packages including spare and wear parts, service and maintenance, finance and more. Applications: UNTHA has been at the forefront of the shredding sector for 50 years. As a result, there’s virtually nothing these machines can’t shred and profitably. Talk to FOCUS Enviro about: • Plastic shredding • WEEE recycling • Organics shredding • Metal recycling • Single-step alternative fuel production • Bulky waste shredding e.g. tyres • Secure waste destruction • Pallet shredding • Biomass Free waste audits available: Some customers approach FOCUS Enviro knowing exactly what

shredding technology they require. Others seek our specialist advice, and we work with UNTHA to understand how to optimise their waste and recycling operations. With hundreds of shredding configurations available, there’s no such thing as ‘one size fits all’ – we can even help build the business case for a machine. We’re also currently offering free waste audits, for customers looking to optimise their existing plant or get started with a new shredding process, they can talk to us about

the challenges they’re experiencing. We’ll evaluate the circumstances and return a costed plan with ROI (return on investment) figures to recommend what the next step and what the likely payback period.

Recent Projects/Installations:

companies, recycling businesses, contractors and farmers. It is now available exclusively through GCM Enviro.

Contact Details: FOCUS enviro info@focusenviro.com.au +61 (02) 4365 4247 www.focusenviro.com.au

GCM Enviro Company Overview:

Brands:

GCM Enviro is a leading distributor for the latest in waste management and recycling equipment; from landfill compactors and shredders through to state-of-the-art screeners and compost turners. We offer high quality equipment from world-renowned European manufacturers including TANA, Terra Select, Backhus and Jenz. GCM Enviro’s mission is to provide customers with innovative technology in soild waste management combined with state-of-the-art control and monitoring systems. The objective of this mission is to improve our customer’s business and enable them to increase revenue - “from waste to value”. Our philosophy is to maintain constant dialogue between manufacturers and clients to ensure that design is governed by market requirements, particularly in the harsh climatic conditions we experience. Throughout the country, we have sold over 3200 machines. These machines have earned an excellent reputation for robust design and reliability.

• • • • •

TANA Terra Select Backhus Jenz Gremac

Core Capabilities: We offer a variety of waste management solutions for our clients with our range of Landfill Compactors, Shredders, Trommel Screens, Windsifters, Windrow Turners, Lane Turners and Biomass Processors. At GCM Enviro, we build lasting relationships with our customers, from the sale of quality equipment and machines, to the servicing, maintenance, spare parts and technical assistance to support the equipment in the field. Our service team has specialised knowledge, training and experience to carry out all types of maintenance to our range of machines. We also have a comprehensive spare parts department for products from our manufacturers.

Daily news updates at www.insidewaste.com.au

KARRATHA CITY COUNCIL This month Karratha City Council took delivery of one of our new Tana E520 Landfill compactors, the 52 tonne compactor will be put to work at their waste management facility. GREMAC E2 TROMMEL SCREEN The GREMAC E2 Trommel Screen has just been released in Australia and is set to be a game changer for landscape

Contact Details GCM ENVIRO 34 Beaumont Road Mount Kuring-Gai NSW 2080 Phone: 02 9457 9399 Email: sales@gcmenviro.com.au Web site: www.gcmenviro.com

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021 INSIDEWASTE

Capabilities Statements //

Hitachi Zosen Inova Company Overview: Hitachi Zosen Inova (HZI) is a global leader in energy from waste (EfW), anaerobic digestion (AD) and Powerto-Gas, acting as an engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contractor delivering complete turnkey plants and system solutions for energy recovery from waste. Since 2015, HZI Australia, a 100% subsidiary of HZI, is developing new projects in Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific. Its first project, the 300,000 tpy East Rockingham WtE is now in construction and will start commercial operation in Dec 2022. Products/Services: • Thermal treatment of residual waste, energy recovery, flue gas treatment, and residue recycling • Dry anaerobic digestion of food & green resources, renewable power production, biogas upgrading to biomethane and bio-CNG • Power-to-Gas for volatile electricity into renewable synthetic gas for a

carbon-neutral economy • Development, Design, Build, Finance, Own, Operation & Maintenance Brands: • Hitachi Zosen • Aquaroll, DYNOR, Kompogas, • HZI Etogas, HZI DryMining Core Capabilities: Energy from Waste, Renewable Gas, EPC Recent Projects/Installations: EAST ROCKINGHAM WTE East Rockingham, Perth 300,000 tpy EfW for domestic and industrial waste from Greater Perth. Designed, built and commissioned by the EPC consortium HZI and Acciona Industrial with HZI’s scope ‘chute-tostack’. First EfW plant in Australia by HZI inclusive integrated bottom ash aggregate and metal recycling; partowned and operated by HZI. www.erwte.com.au

ANRÖCHTE ANAEROBIC DIGESTION & COMPOST PLANT Anröchte, Germany Digests and composts 30,000 tpy food and green organic resources to renewable electricity and nutrientrich compost. Demand-driven power is generated with 12 hours biogas buffering and two generators. In accordance with Germany’s latest requirement for >90% organic anaerobic digestion and low emission standards for biological treatment. https://www.esg-soest.de/?mp_id=314 HZI JÖNKÖPING BIOGAS AB Jönköping, Sweden Processing 40,000 tpy food and green organic resources into liquid fertilizer, compost, and carbonneutral biogas which is upgraded

to bio-CNG and used as a renewable alternative in diesel trucks. The plant contributes to Sweden’s transport sector decarbonisation strategy. It is designed, financed, built, owned, and operated by HZI. https://hzi-biogas-operations.com/ Contact Details: Hitachi Zosen Inova Australia Pty Ltd Level 17, 40 Mount Street North Sydney, NSW 2060 Phone: 02-8003 4110 Email: info@hz-inova.com Web site: www.inova.com Key Contacts: Dr Marc Stammbach 02 – 8003 4110 info@hz-inova.com

Onetrak

Onetrak Company Overview:

Products and Services: Onetrak is an Australian owned heavy equipment supplier with a national footprint. Sales and service outlets are located in Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, Tasmania, South Australia and Western Australia. The business now consists of 7 branch locations, 40 field service vehicles and around 100 staff members.

• • • • • • • • • •

Material Handlers Bulldozers Excavators Wheel Loaders Graders Backhoe Loaders Crushers & Screens Grapples & other attachments Carbonisers Rockbreakers

Brands: Onetrak specialises in equipment for bulk material handling including waste and recycling, extractive industries, construction, earthmoving and forestry. Onetrak offers complete heavy equipment solutions including new and used machine sales, rental equipment, attachments, service and parts. The aftersales teams service and supply parts for all makes and models.

• • • • • • • • • •

INSIDEWASTE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021

Fuchs Material Handlers Dressta Bulldozers Hidromek Construction Equipment Rotobec Material Handling Attachments Striker Crushing & Screening Anaconda Material Handling Screens Hyundai Construction Equipment (Tasmania only) Tigercat Carbonisers Alicon Rockbreakers Timbermax Winch Systems

Contact Details: Phone: 1300 727 520 Email:contact@onetrak.com.au Web: www.onetrak.com.au

Onetrak Tumut 208-216 Snowy Mountains Hwy Tumut NSW 2720

Onetrak Hallam 1-5 Marlo Place Hallam VIC 3803

Onetrak Davenport 8 Wallis Road Davenport WA 6230

Onetrak Bridgewater 80 Possum Road Bridgewater TAS 7030

Onetrak Mount Gambier 11 Pinaceae Court Mount Gambier SA 5290

Onetrak Somerset 2 McKays Road Somerset TAS 7322

Onetrak Rocklea 28 Shettleston Street Rocklea QLD 4106

Daily news updates at www.insidewaste.com.au

// Capabilities Statements

Applied Machinery

Australasian Specialty Coatings that allows for bespoke designs for your particular needs.

Brands: • • • •

Contact Details: 55-61 Nissan Drive Dandenong VIC 3175 Phone: 03 9706 8066 Email: sales@appliedmachinery.com.au Web: www.appliedmachinery.com.au Company Overview: Applied Machinery is one of Australia’s largest suppliers of quality recycling machinery. Over 30 years industry experience enables us to deliver turnkey solutions for all manner of recycling applications across Australia. Products and Services: • Shredders and granulators • Plastic washing, tyre, and e-waste recycling plants • Repelletising systems/screen changers • Polystyrene recycling machines

Genox Polystar Fimic Greenmax

Core Capabilities: Applied Machinery has the capability to service the smallest single machine requirement, through to the largest of multi-site, staged installations and complete recycling line, turn-key projects. We supply some of Australia’s largest recycling organisations. A wide range of shredders and granulators are always in stock for quick delivery. Recent Projects/Installations: PORT PLASTICS Port Macquarie Polystar Repelletising system and Genox large format shredder to drive recycling operations in the Port Macquarie region and reduce the need for transport of recyclables to metropolitan centres.

Products/Services: Contact Details: ASC Head Office 1/14 Chicago Avenue Blacktown, NSW 2148 Phone: 02 8840 8888 Email: enquiries@acoatings.com.au Web: http://ascoatings.com.au Company Overview: ASC is a team of experienced coating and flooring professionals. We specialise in repairing and coating concrete and steel surfaces in harsh environments – waste handling, tipping sheds, chemical storage and high traffic surfaces. We are fully certified to ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and AS 4801 Standards. When you call in ASC you get a professional, reliable team dedicated to solving your problems and delivering the best outcome, on time. We have a solutions-oriented approach

Aqseptence Group

88 Brickyard Road Geebung, QLD 4034 Phone: 0427 272 786 Email: phil.amor@aqseptence.com Web: www.aqseptence.com Company Overview: Aqseptence Group has partnered with Netherland’s firm Colubris Cleantech to offer bespoke, waste recycling solutions to the Australian and New Zealand markets, a partnership creating real-value commodities from waste and delivering innovative, robust solutions to your waste flows. Johnson Screens (a brand of Aqseptence Group) continues to provide OEM equipment and screening solutions for liquid/solid separation. Known for great strength, wear life and a high level of adaptability, Johnson Screens static

Tipping Shed Floor Resurfacing Chemical Bund Coating & Lining Concrete Repair & Remediation Corrosion Prevention Coatings High Traffic Surfaces Leachate Resistant Materials High Grip & Anti-Slip Coatings Waterproof Membranes Tank Lining Acid Resistant Coatings Expansion Joint Rebuilding & Sealing Water Treatment Plant Coatings

Recent Projects/Installations: TIPPING SHED FLOOR RESURFACING Banksmeadow, NSW Remediation of Eroded Concrete Slab 1500m² Leachate-Resistant Floor Surface CHEMICAL STORAGE AND PUMPING BUND Lidcombe, NSW Acid & Chemical Resistant Bund Re-lining Full Remediation of Bund Internal Surfaces

Hones Lawyers

screens and rotary OEM equipment are ideal for waste processing and recycling.

A brand of Aqseptence Contact Details:Group

• • • • • • • • • • • •

investigations and prosecutions • Waste contracts, tenders and waste contract litigation

Products/Services: Core Capabilities: • • • •

Trommels Deposit Hoppers Sorting Lines Windshifters

Brands: Aqseptence Group is the exclusive manufacturer of Johnson Screens and ContraShear brands. Aqseptence Group is also the exclusive distributor Colubris Cleantech in Australia and New Zealand. Core Capabilities: Colubris Cleantech design engineer, manufacture, integrate and construct sorting lines for C&D, C&I, MSW projects for: • Reuse and recycling • Waste to Energy (W2E) • Waste to Compost Using technologies for a wide range of processes.

Daily news updates at www.insidewaste.com.au

Contact Details: Level 4, 66 Berry Street North Sydney, NSW, 2060 Phone Number: 9929 3031 Email: gshapiro@honeslawyers.com.au Web: www.honeslawyers.com.au/whatwe-do/waste-land-and-environmentcourt-lawyers/

We are specialists in all legal aspects of waste. This includes waste contracts, waste contract litigation, tenders, EPA and Council investigations along with prosecutions, waste dumping, pollution and contamination matters, planning for new waste facilities, licensing, and Land and Environment Court appeals.

Company Overview:

Recent Projects/Installations:

Hones Lawyers is a boutique law firm, which specialises in property, environmental, planning, local government and waste law. We are particular specialists in all legal matters related to waste.

REFUND SHARING AGREEMENT AND ‘NATIONAL SWORD’ NEGOTIATIONS We have successfully drafted and negotiated Refund Sharing Agreements under the NSW CDS, covering approximately 20 local government areas in the state. In addition, we have successfully negotiated and drafted dozens of contracts or contract variations to cover impacts of the China ‘National Sword’, bringing legal certainty and commercial confidence.

Products and Services: • Legal Advice • Land and Environment Court Appeals • Pollution, waste dumping, EPA

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021 INSIDEWASTE

Capabilities Statements //

Hyva Pacific

ResourceCo

A fleet of service vehicles offers on-site solutions for all hydraulic, fabrication, electrical, air-conditioning and engineering requirements. Contact Details:

Products and Services:

72 Glenwood Drive Thornton, NSW, 2322 Phone: 02 4966 3777 Email: hyvapacific@hyva.com Web: www.hyva.com

• Waste Handling Equipment (Rear loaders / Compactors) • Hookloaders • Skiploaders • Vehicle Loading Cranes

Company Overview:

Brands:

Hyva Pacific is a leading provider of innovative and highly efficient transport solutions for the commercial vehicle and environmental service industries. Its products are used worldwide across a range of sectors including transport, construction, mining, materials handling and environmental services providers. HSR Southern Cross is the HYVA distributor for NSW and the exclusive Australian HYVA PRESS Waste Handling Equipment distributor. HSRSX is strategically located in Western Sydney.

• • • •

Hyva Press Hyva Lift Flli. Ferrari Cranes Hyva Crane

Core Capabilities: Hyva /HSRSX is the ‘one stop shop’ for the commercial vehicle and waste handling industry, providing a wide range of high-quality equipment including installation, engineering, service and repair in our workshops or onsite.

management of a new Topcoat Asphalt Plant in 2020. A collaboration between leading companies Topcoat Asphalt, ResourceCo, Tyrecycle and McMahon Services, the plant will produce high recycled content mixes including recycled asphalt and crumb rubber.

Contact Details: ResourceCo Head Office Level 1, 162 Fullarton Road Rose Park, SA 5067 Phone: (08) 8406 0300 Email: enquiries@resourceco.com.au Web: www.resourceco.com.au

Products and Services: • C&D & C&I Recycling • Disposal, Treatment & Management of Contaminated Soils • Renewable Energy & Alternative Fuels • Tyre & Waste Rubber Recycling • Recycled Construction Material

Company Overview: ResourceCo is a global leader in the recovery and re-manufacture of primary resources, extracting maximum value from materials otherwise destined for landfill.

Brands: • • • • • • •

Recent Projects/Installations: TOPCOAT ASPHALT PLANT 6 Meyer Road, Lonsdale SA 5160 ResourceCo Property led the project

ResourceCo Pty Ltd ResourceCo Material Solutions Southern Waste ResourceCo Cleanaway-ResourceCo SUEZ-ResourceCo ResourceCo Property Tyrecycle Pty Ltd

Inside Waste News & Networking twitter.com/InsideWaste

The CDS is a go but still ongo there is ing tensio the desig n n and contr around ol.

NOW AVAILABLE TO VIEW ON

www.insid ewa

ste.com.a

u ISSU E

| OCT/ NOV ISSUE 98

au waste.com.

2020

INSIDE

www.inside

26 Waste 2020 y 32 Technolog ssional 35 Young Profe

as a much The RMF comes the industry. to needed boost

99 | DEC

/JAN 2021

INSIDE

20 Future Directions 26 Inside Packaging 39 Circular Economy

Conference

dy Plastic stu p reveals dee to WHEN IN 2013, a intransience Federal Court ruled that the North judge ern container nge cha deposit schem Territory’s e was from under

CDS: th

e battle

Anatom y of a pla st packag ic ing tax

is over

AS AUSTRALI A welcomes first-ever the coun waste legis try’s continues lation, the to outpace UK watched imminent us with its as the “batt legislatio between le” playe n for packaging Commonwe illegal green grou d out tax to take a new plastic IVE investigation alth law, up of the ps who to see SA-st of Re.Turn April 2022 the draw effect from A COMPREHENS battleline s Foundation yle programs wanted It ing . s for the nationally charity grou which works with Changing Market ing lack of dominant Cont ry, shortlisted roll It natio the is Februa out , in expe and n’s ainer ps as part cted that a beverage d a disturb submitted framed the collection tly developing have the of the recyc this tax ers to (CDS) model bega Deposit Scheme lobby that has reveale programs system. most impa could ants are curren projects. n. ling plastics produc ies Over jobs. applic as local global “Tha ct and too by He new their ark on the will t battl said that, expensive for recycling the wast ensuing landm support recycling activit a e . sector as Australia’s seven years business cases will invest in deliver these community e is now over – operator tax was ing accelerate their unprecedented struggle for the e the , “In order to of staffed largest absolutel introduce since the landfill to work ground-break ideol “This packag econ of an there is sort and y wants d, as it bring (RMF) depo has been will continue AUSTRALIA’S indirect in the face growing omic high-groun ogical and still CDS e to collect, able to impr ts, Return-It reforms, we nisation Fund taxation, community on crisis and within the d has playe infrastructur including around schemsome ongoing tensi - but rather than s in outcomes the industry, ove recyc the Packa Recycling Moder applause from the plastic polluti y materials industry. d s it. on closely with by produ ling just ging Reco e design ment on these On one side out re to addres process priorit There are glass and cing clean materials model depe very Note local govern (a type of arrived to much July. Yet, the Inside , the public pressu cardboard, some histo and control. was er for rema industry sectors and system ndant on document ry in of the report companies nufacturin plastic, paper, The package will also also need rical quirk on state like to thank creating the beve evidence that provi WARR indust In this review , findings , whic up g, while s that to be fixed thousand rage is dependent programs. I’d waste pack des h and is for rolling ed the methodologyopera s of new chemical waste. . “For exam presently aging mate businesses has been release of funds industry matching ructure requir s, for tional in Sout Waste covers jobs. ple, peop groups and recycled rial and mendations g on board er the infrast Mea , h textile Quee Austr recom gettin ments confu e consid le als, itment into ning d and nslan are to alia, s govern sed when a new produ boost recyc Badge d and more rightly ful jobs and positiv Federal comm organic materi their sleeve recycling in their glass ling. ct) Australia. and companies. recently, is eligible, to process “We’re really waste and the $191 million critical projects it HM Reve beer bottl Playbook While on Western policymakers but their to transform nue and the e the othe The Corporateresponsibid tted isn’t. All glass wine and tyres. offer mean proud to be able said. Customs has publi d for and many of r, a split spannelity CDS Talking Trash: beverage due to be submi this bottle to (HMRC) ingful empl shed detai Victoria,” she won’t be realise with an ns, the report suppliers networkfive “These are be equally Australian until ls of the oyment for legislatio independe underwrites operator should of False Solutio regions across involved; draft s – parti g weeks and n which nt has years. t running cular and into CDS getting wine tment will affec in the comin like this, lia’s producers another five in NSW since been up and is an obvio 15 countries eted, we canno t UK where we’ve ly at a time voluntary Record inves ment has of plastic talked to Austra 2017. us issue, it causes and analysed process is compl ts, or the funding opportuni Govern packaging seen job importers Inside Waste plastic because continents so ties impa projec largest , of plastic ry Environment The Victorian ment of orical ent from the Hist people at much confusion cted by COVI identify the packaging business “And of cours a record invest state and territo the status of their for commitments the start most prominquirks customers D. she added. , announced the industry gauge ted,” e, ted In the to for of this he Octo ers a schem reques that of produ explained. new schem importers is a million Minist e. We’re howthe balan how swiftly polluters, dissec and revealedber, cers she believes of plastic nearly $100 e,” ment. This getting monedeposit plans, and fall in favou ce appeared Meanwhile, ives into the Lamb said packaging and positioned consumer ructure invest budgets and aid the y back r of the group initiat hands of then to s who buy he believes , and ment is well plastic supply and infrast projects to people who participat recycle, across thewhen state govern er WARR industry ment and million to streng goods in packaging thetoVicto that the they can move battered economy. consum ion of all along companies ry plastic rian gove to drive invest in the UK. includes $49.5 ng industry indust of the jurisd will deliv the oil endo dollars being with seeing millio to continue and recycli rsed a split as a result country’s COVID Minister for Energy, ly. respo rnment ictions er a natio chain, from the sector ns of Victoria’s waste e, so the state can act private the Consult mode nal netw nsibility back facili communiti raised to support retailers, outcomes in l. Thatofstate In Victoria, ork of takeructur Change ation on ties. brands and ment. es. local . team global and infrast , considere CDS and Climate by atry’s design edcoun really maxi Benefits like that “Then we its record invest ue to work ga However, materials locally d the Environment recychers It was prepar should look mised by ling leade researc there will are process more has been tacklin the ly target putlists, other produ journa “We will contin the Commonwealth Re.Turn It work with r, has since its mode g be an exem for produ e will initial Lily D’Ambrosio l to the investigative cons as sourcin cts we could at all the – we local organ cers and n of the way This packag ly with ption to collect, e rmatio r publi orative ructur well recov importers charities as ideration. freedom of c for isations collab amounts better to delive er through in infrast major transfo state’s waste, to ensure of small and and experts, als of plastic ry partners ews, investment this netw intervi manages the s,WMR can throu that tailor-ma pack mitigate and our indust s priority materi e projects in R chair ork than government on-the gh extended de and serve each depot is literature review against dispr aging to and ts and we l infrastructur sort and proces , paper, cardboard, chief deve officreques enduring the jurisdictio kerbside bins. In er at Re.Gr (FOI) s its comm administr these critica “By enga lopment while also other ns, many information Insid s. ative burde oportionate r. ging with oup, Garth unity. including plastic waste. wn. operators the range organisatio igation local e Waste to tax liabil ns in comp Lamb told a timely manne cal of current Victorian lockdo expand of thatation ground invest ns, Re.Tu challenges arison ity. glass and chemi Recycling Victoria over time, products they will Market Found for decades he rn ent help custo “Despite the This is a the Victoria has ” he The Changing accept mers raise It is able to new n commitm In February, working in s (COVID), made Lamb’s comp added. revenue, much need ry of $300 millio plastic pack tax that applies organisation circumstance tions re Fund (RVIF) of while deliv Waste that any is also is a global ed to drive the delive Victoria, aging produ other founda Infrastructu investment told Inside ering socia environme imported the opera continued to ced in, or rship with NGOs, s, to create D’Ambrosio an immediate Recycling als more than l in ntal ble partne tor into, and ed materi itted y bene availa the outlin sation comm fits. (Continued UK, that not conta h organi projects recycling targeting priorit Victoria had the state’s does on page in at least and researc that shift market of household paper. $28 million to transform 20) recycled 30 per cent ner deposit t campaigns the delivery ts s, glass and through $300 million plastic. and suppor s for a contai ainable produc such as plastic the recycling system and (Continued from unsust reforms, option ally waste and Victoria’s needs, share away on page loping s environment Victoria policy how e that meets deve ing 22) toward on s m schem nies Recycl icant the ns. Appl and compa education progra cant cases beneficial solutio start of our action plan. of Recycling business vely, and signifi and socially process for the launch on page 24) to recycle effecti ,” she added. “As part of said that the announced (Continued reform tructure D’Ambrosio February we institutional Victoria Infras research, Victoria, in ing the on page 22) the Recycling million to drive (Continued ay and follow close to $100 sing and Fund is underw that were local proces Low wea of interest expand the create more Versatile, r. expressions ng industry, world-c Low maintenanc manufacturi materials and lass shre recyclable from ts dding. Con e. Low running produc

eir sights

PP: 1000 24538

ISSN 1837 -5618

th ve waste in States ha

4538 PP: 10002

618 ISSN 1837-5

tact us for

costs. a free was Maximum per formanc te audit: e. info@fo cusenvir o.co

m.au

tyre recycling and Passenger o.com.au (OTR), Truck focusenvir Off the Road ? | info@ systems for know more Secondary es…want to Primary and opportuniti export ban Whole tyre

SUBSCRIBE NOW at subscriptions@primecreative.com.au or visit www.insidewaste.com.au/subscribe 44

INSIDEWASTE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021

Daily news updates at www.insidewaste.com.au

Cat

// Product Profiles - Landfill

Tarpomatic Automatic Tarping Machine

Application: From pushing trash to spreading cover, and cell construction to closing, the D8T Waste Handler is designed and manufactured from the frame up to take on the demands of landfill work. Features: Specialised guarding throughout the machine helps protect major components, final drive guarding helps prevent wire wrap, striker bars help prevent debris from damaging the machine, heavy duty hinged radiator guard, landfill blades and centre-hole track shoes help optimise the waste handler. Comfortable, quiet with excellent visibility operator station, Enhanced Auto Shift allows the operator to select optimum speed for the job. Cat Slope Indicate and Cat Grade with 3D is an integrated grade control system to help operators work more confidently. Unit Dimensions: (3706 H X 3057 W X 7872 L) mm Weight: 38,887 Kg Drive Type: Power Shift Transmission Motor: Caterpillar Inc. C15 Speed (slow/high): 3.4 Km/hr – 14.2 Km/hr Designed for (material): General waste Options/Extras: Cat landfill blades, front striker bars angled design, centre-hole track shoes, enhanced clean air module, rear vision camera, auxiliary disconnect switch. Price: Contact Cat dealers More: www.cat.com/en_AU/by-industry/waste

Tarpomatic is a multi-award winning alternate daily cover system that is currently used at over 600 landfills worldwide. It is a patented, self-contained unit that attaches to the blade of a dozer or compactor to unroll and retrieve heavy duty tarpaulins. Tarpomatic’s heavy-duty construction and interchangeable spools mean the equipment consistently deliver reliable operation for 20-plus years. Unit Dimensions: 11.68 m length x 2.24 m width x adjustable height Weight: 3.5tonnes Motor: 26.5hp CAT engine Designed for (material): Alternate daily cover Options/Extras: Interchangeable spools (for unlimited coverage), odour control unit More: sales@tarpomatic.com.au www.tarpomatic.com.au or 0412 203 017

Tarpomatic Australia

D8T Waste Handler

Tuff Tarp Tarpomatic tarpaulins are manufactured from high quality, dual layer 340 gsm woven polyethylene fabric. This is treated with an antibacterial coating, delivering a significantly superior tear strength compared with alternative materials. It is weighted with chains to withstand winds of up to 100km/hour. They are also flame retardant to NFPA701, carry the highest UV rating and are impermeable, keeping odours in and water out. Unit Dimensions: 9.15m wide x 25.6m (80 feet) long Weight: 400kg Designed for (material): Alternate daily cover Options/Extras: also available in 32m length (100 feet) More: sales@tarpomatic.com.au or 0412 203 017 www.tarpomatic.com.au

GCM Enviro

Weight: 52,000kg Engine: Cummins QSX15-C535 Power: 525 bhp (399KW) Emissions Limits: Tier 3 or Tier 4 Transmission Type: Hydrostatic Crushing Force: 255 kN Front/Rear Drum: 3800 mm/3800 mm Dozer Blade: 5000 mm Frame: Modular More: www. gcmenviro.com or 02 9457 9399

Carlson LandfillGrade

Tarpomatic Australia

TANA E520 Landfill Compactor

Daily news updates at www.insidewaste.com.au

Flexus Wrapping and Baling System

Wastech Engineering

Position Partners

Designed for (material): GPS machine guidance and reporting platform for landfill compactors to optimise airspace and compaction. · Works with all compactor makes and models · Easy to use for operators · Advanced reporting for managers More: www.positionpartners.com.au

Unit Dimensions: 17.6 x 7.6 x 5.1m Motor: 2 x 30kW motors Suitable material: MSW, RDF, shredded C&I, wood chips, car fluff, plastics, paper pulp Price: POA More: www. wastech. com.au or 1800 465 465.

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021 INSIDEWASTE

Wasted Space //

When one conference isn’t enough.... Webinars at the same time. So, you ask why was there two industry events running simultaneously? Well, the answer may seem obvious, they speak to very different audiences, but lying beneath that politically correct mask, I have sensed a distinct frisson of energy between the packaging and waste industries. Call it emotional intelligence or the like, but I would even go as far to say that they don’t like each other. Nothing on the scale of the divide between Make America Great Again and the Democrats of course but,

At Inside Waste, we provide up-to-date, in-depth information on policy and regulation news affecting the waste industry. The publication offers a comprehensive overview of the innovations, challenges and achievements shaping the industry in Australia and internationally. Sign up for your copy and free newsletter today at the link below.

INSIDEWASTE DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021

te.com.au ISSUE 99 | DEC/ JAN

ISSUE 98 | OCT/NOV 2020

The RMF comes as a much needed boost to the industry.

INSIDE 26 Waste 2020 Conference 32 Technology 35 Young Professional

Plastic study

reveals deep CDS: the battle intransience to is over States have waste in their sights change AUSTRALIA’S ground-breaking Recycling Modernisation Fund (RMF) arrived to much applause from the WARR industry in July. Yet, the release of funds is dependent on state governments and industry matching the $191 million Federal commitment, and many of the critical projects it underwrites won’t be realised for another five years. Inside Waste talked to Australia’s state and territory Environment Ministers to gauge the status of their budgets and plans, and how swiftly they can move projects to aid the country’s COVID battered economy. In Victoria, the Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio has been tackling a major transformation of the way the government manages the state’s waste, while also enduring the extended Victorian lockdown.

$300 million commitment D’Ambrosio told Inside Waste that Victoria had committed more than $300 million to transform the state’s waste and recycling system through the Recycling Victoria policy and action plan. “As part of the launch of Recycling Victoria, in February we announced close to $100 million to drive research, expand the local processing and manufacturing industry, create more products from recyclable materials and

ISSN 1837-5618

www.insid ewas

The CDS is a go but there still ongoin is g tension around the design and contro l.

PP: 100024538

insidewaste.com.au

packaging and waste seem to make strange bedfellows. One seems to hold the other responsible for the whole waste crisis, while the other moves at a glacial rate of change while watching the world become immersed in plastic. I digress, and I can tell you that my education continued. In October, the Australian Institute of Packaging started zooming out its annual conference to be quickly followed in November by the 2020 Australasian Waste and Recycling Expo. You are right, it did make my head spin. iw

www.insidewaste.com.au

2021

INSIDE

20 Future Direc tions 26 Inside Pack aging 39 Circular Economy

Anatomy of a plasti c packagin g tax

AS AUSTRALIA welcomes the country’s first-ever waste legislation, continues WHEN IN 2013, the UK to outpace a Federal Court us with its imminent ruled that judge legislation the Northe watched as for a new plastic rn Territory’s packaging container depos the tax to take it scheme between green “battle” played out effect from April 2022. under Comm was illegal A COMPREHENSIVE submitted February, shortlisted support new local jobs. groups who investigation from of Re.Turn onwealthinlaw, to see SA-sty wante It which works d up of the battle the drawin It is expec theleChanging Foundation applicants are currently developing “In order to deliver these landmark programsMarkets charity group with g ted lines that roll nation out lack of for the this tax could s as part of ally, has have the most dominant Contai disturbing business cases fornation their ’s projects. reforms, we will continue to work andrevealed a beveraage the recycling collection impact on ner Deposit framed the lobbyproducers system. that the waste and recycling (CDS) model “This package will invest in will by ms global plastics to He closely with the industry, community Schem progra e as too expen began. sector since said that, as Australia’s tax was introd the landfill infrastructure to collect, sort and “That battle accelerate recyclingsive. activities sectors and local government on these Over the ensuin is now their operator of largest over – the uced, as it comm g seven years, staffed depot brings in indirect taxati a struggle process priority materials including unity absolu in the face of an unprecedented has programs. I’d like to thank industry s, Return-It tely wants for the ideolo been able on, rather there CDS and to improve gical than just - butgrowing the Packag econo plastic, paper, cardboard, glass and is still plastic pollution crisis groups and businesses for rolling upmic high-g and some ongoi outcomes ing Recovery ng tension round has around schem by producing recycling Note system (a type of within the chemical played The package will also public pressure to address it. mater their sleeves and getting on board e design cleaner out docum industry. Onwaste. and ials for reman There oneinfrastructure evidence waste ent that provides the model this reviewcontro of thel. report, Inside consider the required are some In side was to transform waste and recycling in ufacturing, histor creating thousa depen ical quirks while also need on the bevera that nds of new has been recycl packaging material companies, to dant to be Waste covers the methodology, findings materials, textiles, Victoria,” she said. fixed. ge jobs. whichprocess organic ed into a new “For examp and positive recommendations Mea is presently to boost recycl operational and and for tyres. product) le, ning people in South Austra ful jobs ing. are rightly confus Record investment Queensland and “These are lia, due to be submitted ed whenpolicymakers HM Revenue their glass and companies. Badged “We’re and Custom is eligible, recently,weeks bottle Playbook really proud to be has published Australia. Whileinmore s (HMRC) The Victorian Government has the coming this Trash:beer The Corporate butTalking Westeand their glass able to offer meani rn until details of the on the other, isn’t. wine bottle ngful emplo legislation respon announced a record investment ofsibilit process is completed, Solutions, the report spanned draft a split we cannot All beveraofgeFalse yment for Australians suppli which will y CDS with ers should be equally – particularly affect an producers network operat identify nearly $100 million for industry theindepe projects, or the funding 15ed; countries and regions across involv ndent at a time likefive of plastic packa UK getting wine this, where or has been into CDS is we’ve seen importers runnin ging, and infrastructure investment. This requested,”up sheand added. continents and analysed voluntary an obviou g in NSW since oppor of job plastic s tuniti issue, it causes so packaging, because largest plastic es impacted 2017. she believes that business custom includes $49.5 million to strengthen Meanwhile, the commitments much by COVID. confusion from the “And of ers of produ people at the Histo for importers rical quirk Victoria’s waste and recycling industry state government is well positioned polluters, dissected the mostschem prominentcourse, this is a depos start of plastic packa cers and of a new s e. We’re gettin it he explained. schem consumers ging, and e,”revealed and infrastructure, so the In state caner, the to continue to drive investment and group initiatives and Octob g money back intohow who buy goods the hands Lamb said e appea of people who packaging fall in favour balanc in plastic process more materials locally. outcomes in red the to sector as a result of he believ companies across the plastic supply recycl in the UK. of the WARR es that the e, along participatio when This package will initially target investment. from the oil industrydollar to consumer with seeing millio n of allchain, the Victorianits recordindust ry the jurisdi s being raised ns of will Consultat govern ctions act privately. endor ment investment in infrastructure tosed collect, “We will continue to work deliver a nation brands and retailers, to support ion on desig communitie a split respon al netwo local back facilit rk of taken sibility CDSwith the Commonwealth However, there sort and process prioritymodel materials It was prepared by a team of global s. Benefits like that ies. . That state, collaboratively really maxim are will considered “Then we shouldinvestigative journalists, researchers ised by Re.Tur be an exemp for producers including plastic, paper,count cardboard, industry the partners to deliver ry’s recycling and our tion work with n It – we look at all and importers other produ local organ leader the amounts of put its model has since glass and chemical waste. these ,critical infrastructure projects in we could and experts, as well as sourcing of cts isation small charit s and plastic packa to the public ies to ensure better recover throug ging to mitigate agains consideratio In February, the Recycling Victoria a timelyfor manner. reviews, interviews, of that each h thisliterature tailor-freedom n. depot is network than made and t disproportio can serves administrati werequests “By Infrastructure Fund (RVIF) madechair “Despite the challenges ofthroug current (FOI) and on-theWMRR h kerbsideinformation nate ve burdens bins. In other and chief develo engaging with its community. jurisdictions in comparison to tax liabili available an immediateoffice investment of circumstances (COVID), Victoria has, many operat ground investigations. local pment r at Re.Gro organisation ty. up, the ors Garth s, expandMarket Foundation rangeofof produ Re.Turn It This is a new Lambto $28 million targeting Inside priorityWaste materials continued drive the delivery The Changing told is able to help custom cts they that for decad tax that applie over time,” will accept plastic packa es outlined such as plastics, glass and paper. projects in Recycling Victoria, working in ers raise much neede s to he added.is a global organisation he revenu ging e, while delive d Lamb’s compa produced in, imported into, the delivery of household recycling partnership with NGOs,enviro other foundations ring social or ny is also nmental benefi and the UK, that the operat Applicants developing not contai or reforms, options for a container deposit and research organisations, create does ts. (Contito n at least nued on page 30 per cent business cases recycled plastic scheme that meets Victoria’s needs, the and support campaigns that shift market 20) . (Continued D’Ambrosio said that the process for start of our education program on how share away from unsustainable products on page 22) the Recycling Victoria Infrastructure to recycle effectively, and significant and companies towards environmentally ISSN 18375618

bet I was able to find it there. And you know how I struggle with zoom, I never seemed to be off the darn thing. By all accounts it was a huge success with nearly 3000 faces zooming in during the six-week program. There were eight premium sessions featured and more than 35 speakers. Unfortunately, I didn’t make the cut. Meanwhile, over in the Packaging camp, not to be outdone with this extravaganza of information, the Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation launched a series of Weekly Community

Fund is underway and following the expressions of interest that were PP: 10002 4538

DEAR MINISTER, I know it’s been some months since my last report but, in my defence, my schedule has been terrifyingly full. There’s not been a free moment, as I try to keep pace with these Aussies who are working their hearts out to beat those exports bans. It’s been exhausting watching the progress as more grants are handed out, a Product Stewardship Centre of Excellence is established and I’m sure you may have heard that the country’s first ever recycling legislation has been making its way through the Parliament. As well as all of this long overdue activity, I’ve noticed that one of the curious strategies of the WARR industry (that’s how they style themselves down here) is to conference themselves towards them (the export bans that is). I know it’s strange, but it seems to be the way that they like to do things. As the saying goes, one conference is too many and 100 isn’t enough. Not that I’m saying the waste industry has 100 conferences a year, it just seems like that… LOL. It appeared to start just after lockdown in March when the faceto-face Waste Conference 2020 held at Coffs Harbour, a semi tropical beachside resort that the locals love to throng to every year, was cancelled. Before you could say FOGO, this event metamorphosised into what is now known as a ‘virtual event’. If there was anything I needed to know about the waste industry, you

institutional reform,” she added. (Continued on page 22)

and socially beneficial solutions. (Continued on page 24)

Low wea r. Low main , world-cla tena ss shredding nce. Low running costs. Max . Contact us for a free imum perfo rman waste audi t: info@focus ce. enviro.com .au

Versatile

Primary and Secondary systems for Off the Road (OTR), Truck and Passenger tyre recycling Whole tyre export ban opportunities…want to know more? | info@focusenviro.com.au

Daily news updates at www.insidewaste.com.au

London, Oslo and Dublin Rely on Our Energy-from-Waste Technology. London, United Kingdom

Oslo, Norway

Dublin, Ireland

So Does Perth. Rockingham, Australia

Our solutions are based on efficient and environmentally sound in-house technology, and cover the entire life cycle of an Energy-from-Waste facility. Our proven technologies have been part of more than 700 plants worldwide. As a global leader in energy from waste we are proud to be able to say: We deliver. Check our references.

Waste is our Energy www.hz-inova.com