New PPE waste management initiative

With the surge in use of personal protective equipment (PPE) since COVID-19, a recycling program has been launched by Australian PPE producer Industree Group and global recycling company TerraCycle to reduce PPE waste at worksites nation-wide.

The Epicycle initiatve features recycling boxes that are custom-designed for collecting used safety glasses, safety gloves and disposable respirators before they reach landfill.

TerraCycle ANZ general manager Jean Bailliard says PPE has traditionally been considered a hard-to-recycle waste stream because it consists of different kinds of complex, composite materials including hard and soft plastics, leather, and fabrics.

“For this reason, we are proud to join forces with Industree Group to provide a recycling solution for a waste stream which often ends up in landfill,” he said.

“This initiative is a significant stride towards minimising PPE waste and accelerating the transition to a Zero-waste economy in Australia.”

Industree Group chief executive Jon Fleming highlights the importance of sustainability and responsible waste management.

“Sustainability isn’t just good for the environment – it’s the key to a brighter future,” he said.

“By curbing our environmental impact, we’re paving the way for a better tomorrow. Our commitment to sustainability is a genuine investment in a thriving future”.