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Waste and recycling

At Parliament House and in the Parliamentary precincts, maintenance, engineering, landscape, computing and catering services generate a variety of waste types.  Office-based activities result in mainly paper waste.

Performance

The key indicators used to monitor waste management at Parliament House are tonnes of paper recycled, tonnes of waste sent to landfill (not from the landscape) and tonnes of co-mingled waste recycled. Co-mingled waste includes glass, rigid plastics, metal cans, foil and cartons.

Comment on performance:

Compared to the same period last year, Parliament House has recycled more material and landfilled less waste. The recycling target of 45% was almost met. A renewed focus on paper recycling should help Parliament House reach this target.

Objectives and targets

DPS is currently preparing a DPS Waste Strategic Plan 2008-2011, which will formally set out objectives and targets on waste and recycling.

Key objectives will be to maximise recycling rates, provide additional facilities to recycle other types of waste and reduce waste generation.

Tips on reducing waste and improving recycling

If you are working in Parliament House, then please refer to the APH Waste Management Brochure for information on recycling services.  Ways that building occupants can help manage waste are:

  • Join the voluntary office co-mingled recycling scheme to encourage recycling in your office area (email DPS Environment mailbox for more information).

  • Flatten cardboard, cartons and plastic bottles. The smaller the space waste takes up, the less storage area is needed and the lower the environmental impacts and cost of waste transport.

  • If you have more material to recycle than usual (for example, if you are moving suite or if a function is being held in your work area), then contact your relevant office support services for additional recycling bins.

  • Look for ways to reduce waste by choosing durable items and rethinking purchases. Seek to reuse containers, such as using your coffee mug instead of a disposable take-away cup.

If you are visiting Parliament House, then please use the recycling facilities and bins provided.

 

Comments to: webmanager@aph.gov.au
Last reviewed 30 April, 2009
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