Waste management and recycling don’t end with the bin…they begin!

Putting recyclable materials, like bottles or cans, and rubbish in the appropriate bins are just the first step in the safe management of our waste. Some recyclable items will even be converted into new products and materials like newspapers, drinking bottles, or even planes and cars!

The recycling journey begins with items being collected and then brought to the Materials Recovery Facility (MRF). There, they are first sorted by hand and then by machines to be baled and processed. This is why it’s important to avoid putting dangerous or inappropriate materials in the recycling bin. Even a single soft plastic bag can block the whole recycling process!

Waste too has an interesting journey. Landfills are now created with sustainability in mind, meaning they’re designed to control odours and vermin and to avoid water and soil contamination.

The Cradle Coast and Northern Tasmanian Waste Management Groups support facilities that sort, bundle and transport recyclables to processors. They also support landfill and transfer stations that safely dispose of thousands of tonnes of waste. By doing this, they help keep our community and environment healthy.

You can help by being a good sort and taking waste management seriously. Whether it’s at home, at work, at school or anywhere else, make sure that you toss items in the right bins.

To learn more about the waste managing process:

Fact Sheet: Landfill

Fact Sheet: Recycling – Where Does It Go?

Business Tips For Better Waste Management

Or visit our Resources and Links section