Waste & Recycling

Waste is the most visible environmental issue on campus and tackling single-use disposables – in particular plastics – has been identified as a key priority by the UNSW community. Our strategy follows the waste hierarchy by promoting reuse over single-use, reducing packaging and prioritising products that are recyclable. We will do this by engaging with suppliers and retailers and improving waste management facilities and practices. 

Commitment:

Close the loop by minimising waste, improving resource efficiency and managing waste responsibly.


Targets

  • Reduce general waste per EFTSL by 10% by 2022.
  • Maintain general waste landfill diversion at 90%+
  • Achieve a minimum 90% recycling of construction and demolition waste.

Activities

  • Develop and implement a Waste Management Plan.
  • Implement centralised waste collection in offices and expand food waste collection.
  • Work with retailers and hospitality partners to eliminate single-use plastics wherever feasible and practical.
  • Identify and implement circular economy initiatives.
  • Ensure best practice recycling of construction and demolition waste.
  • Implement a comprehensive furniture reuse solution and platform.

 

Waste Services

Recycling Batteries
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Rechargeable and single-use batteries can be recycled in the battery recycling boxes located at many spots on campus including FM Assist, Arc Reception or anyone of these recycling stations.

Collected batteries can also be sent via internal mail to HR Reception 119, Chancellery Building. For all other types of batteries and further information email us here. 

Recycling Toner Cartridges
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Empty toner cartridges can be recycled by placing them in Close the Loop Toner Cartridges Recycling boxes across the campus. You can register for your own collection box by visiting  Close the Loop. When full, call 1800242473 or book a pick up online. It’s free and easy!

Recycling Mobile Phones
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You can recycle your mobile phone and accessories, such as chargers by sending them to HR Reception, Room 119, Level 1, Chancellery Building via internal mail. Otherwise put it in the phone recycling stations located at FM Assist and Arc office.  

Recycling Lights
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You can recycle any light bulbs and tubes by placing them in the collection box . For any further details contact FM General Services. 

Recycling Glass & Plastic
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We have our own Reverse Vending Machine (RVM) installed near Old Main Building entrance, next to Physics Lawn (Campus map reference K15). You can recycle all your glass and plastic single use containers at the RVM and earn 10 cents for every eligible container.

Recycling Paper & Cardboard
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At UNSW, we have an extensive paper recycling program in place. Look for the blue bins which are placed inside all buildings, office spaces and near classroom areas. For further information on paper recycling or to request a new bin contact FM General Services.

Recycling Polystyrene

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UNSW has established allocated collection points for polystyrene disposal across campus. You can take any collected polystyrene to the location close to you.