As professionals in built-form consultancy, we look for opportunities to achieve more sustainable results in the projects we engage in. We do so by identifying the local government areas that are actively adopting a zero-waste-to-landfill approach and devise the best way for our clients to accompany us on this journey.
From a waste management perspective, how can the resource recovery mindset be permeated into the day-to-day behaviours of the residents and commercial tenants that use the guidelines we propose? Can we start thinking of residential spaces that consider resource recovery as part of their design? Can we support businesses in utilising their space as an asset to better minimise and manage their waste?
Project Overview
Construction on the Seymour Recovery Centre located at 470 Seymour-Tooborac Road, Hilldene, was carried out from May 2022 to May 2023 by Melbourne-based companies, Bowden Corp, and Breath Architecture. Completed with an overall investment of $8 million, which came from Council’s $7.4 million budget, a $500,000 grant from Sustainability Victoria’s Resource Recovery Infrastructure Fund, and a $100,000 E-waste Infrastructure Grant.
Sustainable Operations
The Mitchell City Council aims to divert 80% of waste from landfill by 2030 by following a ‘cradle to cradle’ or ‘circular economy’ approach, promoting resource reuse and waste minimisation. The centre offers a two-level, drive-through experience for customers with recycling as the focus.
On the lower level, specific items such as e-waste, foam, and mattresses, can be dropped off for recycling. The upper deck provides designated bays for recyclable materials like metal, cardboard, and green waste. Non-recyclable waste will be disposed of in general waste bins for landfill and customers who separate their recyclables may receive reduced or no charges for drop-off.
Unwanted goods dropped off at the facility may be available for sale in the on-site reuse shop. The centre also includes an education space for waste education tours and workshops for schools and the community. Sustainability practices were implemented during construction, including the use of mixed recycling materials for a meeting room table and artwork. Other sustainable features include plywood cabinetry, reclaimed wooden trims, cork flooring, zincalume cladding, energy-efficient lighting, recycled plastic bollards, a 50kw solar system, and rainwater harvesting for all water needs.
Space to Grow
As Australia continues to move towards the zero-waste-to-landfill target, a rise in the number of resource recovery centres is easily to foresee as more local councils face the challenges of landfill closures and pressure by residents for greater accountability as to where the waste goes.
Ratio will continue to provide advice on the best practices in waste management, paying close attention to Councils’ efforts and identifying opportunities to include our clients in the resource recovery conversation.
Further Australia Case Studies:
Kimbriki, Ingleside / Terrey Hills, NSW
