Businesses are a major contributor to the strong economy of Australia. They also help contribute to the growth of job opportunities in the country. However much they contribute to the economy of the country, they also contribute to the tonnes of waste that goes into the landfill. Awareness about recycling and its importance is spreading throughout the country. The growing population, however, also means that more waste is being generated.
From manufacturing to retail to the hospitality industry, different businesses generate different kinds of waste. Here are some quick facts and statistic on the business waste generated in this country.
Construction and demolition waste is better recycled than thrown at landfills.
Construction and demolition waste, which is composed of timber, plastic, concrete, wood, metals, and other materials, makes up 40% of the country’s total waste generation. The good news is, this wastes is almost totally recyclable. Even better, recycling it is generally cheaper than sending it to the landfill. Landfill levy costs are higher for heavy construction and demolition materials, so savvy business owners opt for recycling.
Commercial and industrial wastes can do more to boost recovery of materials.
In 2013-2014, commercial and industrial businesses generated 17.13 million tonnes of waste. This is one third of the total generated waste in Australia. By 2020, it is estimated that this sector will generate 29 million tonnes of wastes. This industry has the greatest opportunity for boosting of material recovery, especially for the wastes that are dumped in landfills in homogenous form. Commercial and Industrial waste is made up of 32.6% food, 22.1% paper, 21.4% plastic, while the rest is glass, cardboard, metals, and other materials.
Retail business can recycle more plastic and paper.
A study conducted by the Environment Protection Agency found that retail businesses in NSW could recycle an extra 31,665 tonnes of plastic and 35,937 tonnes of paper each year. The waste of a typical retail store in NSW is made up of 43% paper and cardboard, and 21% plastic wrap and bags. Bins for recyclable materials can greatly help in improving recovery and reduction of wastes.
Manufacturing industry contributes the most waste.
Manufacturing businesses are the top contributors of commercial and industrial waste. They make up 24.5% of the total wastes, followed by mixed small businesses at 16.7%, retail businesses at 12.2%, and health care services at 6.5%.
The retail sector generates the most number of garbage bags.
The retail sector generates 23% of all garbage bags disposed by the commercial sector. The manufacturing industry follows closely at 22%. The common content of the bags is plastic, paper, wood, masonry, and food.
Where are commercial wastes disposed?
Based on the Waste Contribution Monthly Report, almost 80% of business and commercial wastes are disposed of in the Sydney Metropolitan Area. The rest are disposed of in the extended regional areas.
Only 37% of small and medium enterprises have a waste and recycling plan.
In social research conducted by the EPA, only 4 in 10 SME’s have a waste and recycling plan. Most businesses in the accommodation and restaurant sectors have an action plan, while those in the retail and wholesale trade sector are the least likely to have an action plan.
Almost all commercial offices waste can be recycled.
A typical waste bin in a commercial office is made up of 76% paper and cardboard, 12% food wastes, and 6% glass and plastic. By properly segregating wastes, a business can save money via a reduced waste collection charge. Plus, your business will be doing its share of helping the community and the environment.
Get started with proper waste management and business waste removal with Skip The Tip!
Skip the Tip provides a wide range of cheap skip bins for households and business owners in Newcastle. Keep your waste in check, and help reduce the rubbish that goes into the landfills. Keep your establishment sanitary and healthy. Help protect the environment, the welfare of your customers, and your surrounding community. From paper, food, plastic, wood, and masonry wastes, Skip the Tip will help you in disposing of them properly. Call us for a free quote today.
