Waste Audit Australia

Industry Sector

Education

Client Profile

Major Tertiary Education facility.

Statement of Waste Issue

Due to site renovations, there was a need to relocate the waste area. A temporary waste storage area was creating issues with cleaners and local council. As part of this project it was decided to develop a comprehensive waste management strategy incorporating the objectives as set out in the institution’s Statement of Environmental Sustainability.

Process

• An initial site analysis was undertaken to review current systems in place; logistical issues associated with the site and possible locations for the new waste area. 
• Interviews were held with all stakeholders to gain their input and views. Cleaners; facility managers; site services and existing waste and recycling contractors were included.
• A visual analysis of the waste from different areas was undertaken over a number of days. This visual data, together with historical waste invoice data was used to build up a theoretical waste profile of for the site.
• Based on the above, quotes were obtained from contractors on alternative waste/ recycling systems and a proposed new waste management system together with new location was developed.
• Based on the waste profile, and environmental statement a comprehensive waste management strategy was developed incorporating year 1 and year 2 action plans and project waste profiles and diversion charts. Cost savings per year were calculated based on the action plan and projected profile.

Findings

• The site was very limited in alternative waste sites. Access was poor and most available space was allocated to student areas.
• Only limited recycling was in place, with significant potential to increase materials diverted into existing and new streams.
• Existing recycling services were not cost competitive. 

Outcome

• While initially student areas were not to be used for waste services, we convinced the Institute to use their waste as an educational tool, and highlight the impacts their activities have, thus bringing waste to the conscious mind of students and teachers.
• The strategy was endorsed.
• The committee agreed to allocate some student space for the recycling facility.
• The institute launched their environmental policy publicly, incorporating findings from the desktop review.
• New recycling contractors have been approached.
• The new waste management area is being designed.