Changing Waste, Changing Habits Together
Thank you to everyone who participated in our Waste Events last week!
We hope you had fun and also learned a bit about the new changes to our waste signage and management at International Towers.
Congratulations to everyone who took home a bottle of FRASS, an innovative product generated right here in our building by some very busy maggots and to the winners of our ultimate eco-challenge, Waste Wise Mini Golf as below:
2 x First Prize Winners received a $150 Red Balloon gift voucher.
Dal L. from Gilbert & Tobin and Samantha O. from ANZUP.
2 x Second Prize Winners received a $100 Red Balloon gift voucher.
Nicole D. from Westpac and Ben L. from FDM.
2 x Third Prize Winners received a $50 Red Balloon gift voucher.
Ashesh S. from TPG and Joel S. from Austrade.
Now that's what we call turning trash into treasure!
Our innovative waste management programs and events are designed to educate, engage, and inspire our community to embrace sustainable living, helping us all reduce waste, recycle more effectively, and contribute to a greener International Towers.
Make sure you read the new signs so we’re all moving in the same direction.
Click the button below to learn more, or reach out to your Facilities Manager for additional information.
New Waste Stream Signage
Waste Signage "Stop Signs"
In order to achieve the best recycling outcomes, we have made the addition of ‘stop signs’ to our waste signage. When you see one of these, it’s a reminder for you to stop, and check that your waste item is in an acceptable condition for disposal.
Changes to compostable packaging
Compostable packaging – What has changed and why?
The NSW EPA now prohibits compostable plastics and fibre-based materials like paper towel, bamboo, timber, or cardboard packaging from Organics (food) recycling due to:
- The presence of PFAS chemicals in some compostable packaging, which may cause environmental harm.
- The negligible nutrient value these products contribute to the composting process.
Additionally, research suggests that increasing compostable plastic content in compost may negatively impact its safe application to land and adversely affect earthworm and plant growth.
What does that mean for me as a tenant?
We will be refreshing waste streams and education across the precinct while exploring innovative ways to reduce packaging reliance. New waste signage and educational materials will be available soon. In the meantime, please continue your current waste disposal practices until further notice.
Moving forward:
Please await further updates regarding waste management practices and opportunities at Barangaroo, including potential pilot projects for reusable packaging alternatives. Collaboration for optimal waste management and diversion outcomes is crucial, and appreciation is extended to all Barangaroo tenants for their ongoing cooperation and support.
Please keep Dry Waste DRY
No food or liquid in the dry waste bin
As the name suggests, the Dry Waste stream must be DRY for it to be diverted from landfill and processed into an alternative fuel source. Recently we have seen increased contamination in the Dry Waste bins in the form of food and liquids (coffee). There is zero tolerance for food waste and liquids in the Dry Waste stream.
What do we need to do?
Please dispose all food into the Organics (food) bins. Please empty coffee and other liquids into a sink before disposing your cup into the Dry Waste bin.