MarketPlace Leichhardt Leads the Recycling Revolution
MarketPlace Leichhardt is leading the recycling revolution with the installation of one of Australia’s first reverse vending machines. The installation coincides with the centre’s own Enviro Expo - a six week eco-inspired series of events and workshops.
Envirobank reverse vending machines look like a regular vending machine but instead of inserting coins to receive a drink or snack, users place their empty plastic bottles or cans and use an LCD touch screen to select prizes, retailer discounts, or, a credit for charity.
“Reverse vending machines are the modern day answer to cash-for-cans. They reward shoppers and complement centre recycling initiatives efficiently and economically,” says Narelle Anderson, Managing Director, Envirobank.
Unlike recycling bins, Envirobank’s reverse vending machines can identify non-recyclable material as well as crunching cans and bottles on site. The machines also alert staff when full, reduce waste management costs and lower the centre’s carbon footprint by reducing collection frequency.
According to Michèle Brett, Centre Manager, MarketPlace Leichhardt, the Envirobank reverse vending machine will complement the Centre’s waste management program by reducing recyclable waste and engaging retailers and our local community in the process. Envirobank machines hold up to 3000 aluminium cans and 600 plastic bottles. Each item is scanned and recorded to provide an accurate audit of our contribution towards reducing our carbon footprint. The machine is located in the Food Court.
“MarketPlace Leichhardt is serious about reducing its environmental impact. The Envirobank reverse vending machine will assist us in more effectively managing our waste management program, but more importantly, provide a fun and interactive activity that involves retailers and our local community.” says Ms Brett.
Through the strategic introduction of sustainable green initiatives since 2007, MarketPlace Leichhardt has reduced its energy consumption by 35 per cent. The intentional introduction of a GREEN LEASE policy in early 2009 has been the catalyst to ensure that our retailers comply with best practice standards for recycling, power, water and waste management – creating a greener future.
“Choosing Green for MarketPlace Leichhardt requires an ongoing commitment from the building owner - Local Government Super, our management team, retailers and our customers. Taking a holistic approach to sustainability involves the continual introduction of new initiatives such as Envirobank to provide shoppers and retailers with an opportunity to make a difference towards creating a sustainable future,” says Ms Brett.
The Envirobank reverse vending machine at MarketPlace Leichhardt is part of a national roll out and shoppers may soon see them wherever they find a normal vending machine.
“Reverse vending technology will help Australians make a difference in their communities. Envirobank ensures that every can and bottle recycled will have a positive impact on the environment,” concludes Ms Anderson.
Recycling fast facts:
• Aluminium cans can take between 80 - 200 years to break down (Keep Australia Beautiful Week Key Statistics)
• A plastic bottle can take up to 450 years to break down (Keep Australia Beautiful Week Key Statistics)
• It takes 95 per cent less energy to make aluminium from scrap than from virgin materials (Total Environment Centre)
• Producing new plastic from recycled material uses only two-thirds of the energy required to manufacture plastic from virgin materials (Total Environment Centre)
• The average shopping centre produces approximately 30 tonnes of recyclable material each week
Corner of Marion and Flood Streets Leichhardt NSW 2040
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