Materials & Waste

Globally, resources are currently being consumed and waste generated at unsustainable rates, leading to an increase in harmful emissions, land and water contamination, and unnecessary resource depletion. In order to support a circular model of resource use and effective recycling pathways, materials must be reduced, reused and procured from responsible or recycled sources in order to retain the highest value with the lowest lifecycle economic and environmental cost.  
 
Our approach is to procure materials that minimise raw materials and resource consumption in production and minimise ongoing operational environmental impacts. This includes materials with recycled content or those that can be reused or recycled. When conducting works or managing waste at Rouse Hill, we work with our contractors, including our cleaners and waste contractors, to implement practices, find solutions.  
 
Our key focus has been to improve the collection of organic waste, through retailer and consumer engagement, and divert this compostable material from landfill. In 2022, we collected and diverted 97 tonnes of organic waste from landfill. In 2023 this increased by 40 tonnes to 137 tonnes, and over this time general waste has been reduced by 135 tonnes. Reporting of these outcomes is completed through a GPT platform called 'Wall-E' that enables us to track performance and continually improve to reach and exceed our targets. 

With over 40% of the earth’s resources ending up in buildings, we’ve used natural and recycled materials wherever possible. For example, the plywood and aluminium louvers located throughout the centre both contain recycled content. We are always conscious of our impact on the broader community and environment and so we are engaged in numerous recycling programs. For instance, all leaf matter is converted into mulch to be used throughout the centre, all the pallets delivered to site are provided to 'Abbey's Pallets' to be reused or even used in the creation of recycled furniture, and we are engaged in recycling programs for scrap metal as well as old lighting products. We also deliver all used and unwanted paint products and packaging to Paintback, an initiative that diverts these materials from ending up in landfill and vital waterways. The containers are recycled, the solvent paint is used as an alternative energy source, and the acrylic paint is used in a variety of industrial applications. If you would like to find out more on this program please click here.