We can all agree on the importance of recycling in today’s world. Over many years the irresponsible disposal of plastic has contributed to environmental damage of massive proportions. Whilst we can’t change the past, it’s great to know that some of Australia’s bigger plastics manufacturers are exercising solid, progressive thinking. Companies like Garden City Plastics, Dolphin Plastics and Norwood Industries are pouring large amounts of resource into creating a positive environmental impact through recycling.
Every Kilogram of recycled plastic used reduces the need to create that same Kilogram of virgin plastic. Basically, most plant pots, bags and trays will fall into one of 3 categories of Plastic Recycling;
- pp5 (polypropylene)
- ps6 (polystyrene) and
- LDPE4 (Low density Polyethylene).
pp5 (polypropylene)
Most Australian made pots and plant labels are made from polypropylene. There are now some great new programs around that help you to find a participating business that has a recycling bin specifically for your old pots and labels. Once your PP5 plastic waste is collected and recycled, industry leaders Norwood printers and Garden City Plastics (GCP) then create new products out of the recycled materials. And before you know it, your old plant pots and labels are transformed into new ones.
Find your nearest pp5 recycler – https://www.pp5.com.au/
ps6 (polystyrene)
Currently Garden City Plastics is collecting trays that have been neatly stacked on pallets full of ps6 plug trays. They are then transporting them to Polymer Processors in Victoria to have the waste converted back into new trays for you to use. This is a great way to reduce waste.
LDPE4 (low-density polyethylene)
Recycling programs for LDPE4 are still getting off the ground. Best thing to do is ask your local council about what they recommend. If they do accept LDPE to recycle, then follow their instructions (it may be as easy as putting them in the kerbside recycling bin, but check first).
Dolphin Plastics is one of Australia’s leading poly film manufacturers. Located in Queensland, they have their own recycling tool in-house for LDPE4 plastic. High quality recycled material is then incorporated into the manufacture of Black Poly Bags, Banana bunch covers, etc. Emma Shepherd (Manager – Dolphin Plastics) is an active member of various sustainability and environmental groups raising awareness leading to the responsible and sustainable use of plastic.
Polymer Processors in Victoria also recycle LDPE4 bags back into new products.
Recycling of plant pots, bags and trays helps in reducing the volume of waste sent to landfills, and raises awareness among consumers about the responsible use and disposal of plastic waste. You can be involved in supporting recycling initiatives. Good sustainable options to exist so be an advocate for environmental sustainability in your community. Check out these recycling programs available below in the ‘Closed Loop Recycling’ link.
Click here to look at the GCP CLOSED LOOP RECYCLING story…
The process involves collection and sorting of plastic products, recycling and reprocessing in specialised facilities, and sustainable product development by Garden City Plastics and Polymer Processors.
GCP Queensland Manager Jason Durham says “yes, it is a big undertaking to be backing this recycling program, but we believe in the power of partnerships. Our goal is to raise awareness within the horticulture industry of the importance of responsible, sustainable best practice around minimising plastic waste.”
