Watching your waste-line is not just an activity for individuals. An increasing number of Southland businesses, schools, groups and other organizations are getting “in the loop” too.

The Invercargill Fire and Ambulance center have taken the initiative to reduce waste. Their waste management system has been implemented by Senior Station Officer Neil Ladbrook, as part of an NZIM project at the Invercargill station. Neil says:

Our system provides recycling for cardboard, paper, cans and bottles from the offices, function room and kitchen. This is picked up fortnightly by Kerbside Recyclables, run by Southland Enterprises Inc.

We also recycle toner cartridges and inkjets through the Toner Recycling Company with profits going to a nominated charity.

·        A goal of the project was to be fiscally neutral.

·        Waste minimization in business benefits the environment, adheres to our public and social responsibility and can save money. An audit found nearly $3000 was being spent on skip fees annually and this has been halved by recycling.

·        Recycling has put the spotlight on what goes into the skip and how it can be further reduced.

·        It is important to obtain the approval of Senior Management and support of staff when embarking on this kind of initiative.

If you’re keen to set up a recycling scheme at your work, your local council can provide you with information and help get you going. You can always start small and expand over time.

Thanks to WasteNet Southland and Southland Community Wastebusters Trust for providing this information.