June 2024
Waste Management: A Key Solution to the Triple Planetary Crisis
The International Forum on Green World Solidarity: Shifting from Waste to Value for a Sustainable Future Forum underscored a triple crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution, exacerbated by 2.24 billion tonnes of global municipal solid waste in 2020. Addressing this, we need zero waste and circular economy models to cut emissions and pollution, create jobs, and foster economic benefits. Action steps include enhancing waste management, applying life-cycle approaches to products, securing financing for infrastructure, and supporting multilateral agreements like a plastics treaty. These efforts are crucial ahead of COP29.
Source: UNEP
24th June 2024
Cleanaway to Acquire City of Melbourne Waste Service
Cleanaway Waste Management Ltd has acquired City of Melbourne's waste services for $110 million, including a $35 million investment to revamp the Dynon Rd waste transfer station. The partnership aims to enhance sustainability with a modern facility, supported by Cleanaway's expertise. The sale's proceeds will fund the City's Future Fund for strategic community projects, ensuring continued high-quality waste management in Melbourne.
Source: news.com.au
June 2024
1% for the Planet's 2023 Annual Report: A Year of Historic Impact
1% for the Planet's 2023 Annual Report highlights a year of community and progress. The 6th Global Summit in Brooklyn fostered connections and learning among members worldwide. With $580 million in lifetime giving, 1% for the Planet is on track to reach $1 billion goal by 2030. The Planet Impact Fund initiated impactful grants and investments, advancing climate crisis mitigation efforts. Together, we are not just meeting challenges; we are shaping a sustainable future for generations to come.
Source: 1% for the planet
26th June 2024
7-Eleven Upcycles Uniforms in Textile Waste Initiative
7-Eleven Australia partners with Loop Upcycling to recycle old uniforms into stretch fabric beanies. The initiative, supported by community partners like The Salvation Army and AMES Australia, has diverted over 143kg of clothing from landfill. Beanies produced are donated to support people facing homelessness, winter challenges, and new migrants in Melbourne.
Source: Inside Retail Australia
25th June 2024
RecycleSmart Ramps Up Offerings with Commercial Waste
RecycleSmart has expanded its waste collection services significantly, now catering to larger waste streams and commercial operations like manufacturers and construction companies. They've garnered positive feedback from councils and businesses for their comprehensive single-contractor solution, easing the burden of managing multiple waste streams. Plans for national expansion are underway, with recent launches in South Australia and upcoming expansions into Western Australia and Tasmania.
Source: Inside Waste
5th January 2023
31 Ways to Reduce Your Plastic Waste
In addressing our environment and striving for sustainable living, small actions yield significant impact. Though the challenge is substantial and won’t be swiftly resolved, each of us possesses more influence than we may recognise. Together, let’s concentrate on contributing to positive change, adopting superior alternatives, and actively fostering solutions.
Source: ENJO Australia
11th July 2024
Events you should know about: World Population Day
World Population Day was established in 1989 by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), inspired by the public interest during the celebration of ‘Five Billion Day’ on July 11, 1987. Officially set by the United Nations General Assembly through resolution 45/216 in December 1990, this day is annually observed on July 11. It aims to raise awareness about global population issues and their impact on sustainable development. Topics include family planning, gender equality, environmental impacts, and human rights.
Source: United Nations
21st June 2024
Australian Environment Ministers Agree on Strong New Actions
On 21 June 2024, Tanya Plibersek, the Federal Minister for the Environment and Water, chaired a meeting of Australia’s Environment Ministers in Sydney. The Australian Environment Ministers have agreed on strong new actions to enhance waste management, biodiversity conservation, and address invasive species, aiming for a sustainable future by 2030.
Source: DCCEEW Australia
18th June 2024
#EURO2024 Schedule Cuts Teams' Air Travel by 75% vs. EURO 2016
Did you know that #EURO2024 has organised its match schedule to slash teams' air travel by 75% compared to EURO 2016? UEFA's dedication to sustainability in sport has led to venues and matches being grouped in regional clusters, drastically reducing flights for teams and facilitating sustainable transport options for supporters between matches.
Source: UEFA EURO 2024
21st June 2024
FedEx Escalates Sustainability Efforts in Asia Pacific Region
FedEx is enhancing sustainability in the Asia Pacific by reducing emissions and boosting energy efficiency. In FY 2023, they expanded their electric vehicle fleet, including significant use in China and Malaysia, and installed solar energy systems at facilities. Initiatives like the GoGreen program engage employees in eco-friendly practices. The FedEx Cares program supports environmental projects, and the International Trade Challenge educates young entrepreneurs on sustainable delivery.
Source: ITBrief Australia
20th June 2024
Australia Unveils Sustainable Finance Roadmap for Net Zero Transition
Australia's Treasury has unveiled its Sustainable Finance Roadmap to reform financial markets for a net zero economy. Key priorities include mandatory climate reporting, a sustainable finance taxonomy, and investment labels. Draft legislation requires climate risk disclosures by 2025, with detailed standards and guidance expected by 2024. The roadmap also aims to tackle greenwashing and support sustainable investments through various regulatory measures.
Source: ESG Today
17th June 2024
The Rise of Eco-Apps: How Tech Helps Us Live Greener
Eco-apps are revolutionising sustainability by helping individuals and businesses reduce their environmental footprint. These mobile and web-based applications offer practical solutions like carbon footprint tracking, waste management guidance, and sustainable shopping tips. Expert Vikki Gerrard La Crosse highlights how eco-apps integrate seamlessly into daily life, promoting eco-friendly habits and raising awareness about environmental impact. The future looks promising as these apps become more sophisticated, driving progress toward a sustainable future.
Source: Techzone360
28th June 2024
10 Actionable Ways to Reduce Plastic Waste Today
Plastic waste and pollution are urgent global concerns demanding immediate action. Our reliance on single-use plastics and poor disposal practices have severely harmed our environment and wildlife. To tackle this crisis, we must take actionable steps to reduce plastic waste and find effective solutions. In this article, we'll explore ten practical ways to initiate positive change today. By adopting these strategies, we can strive for a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future.
Source: Skipper AU
July 2024
Events you should know about: Plastic Free July
Plastic Free July, an initiative by the Plastic Free Foundation, aims to create a world free of plastic waste. Launched in 2011 by Rebecca Prince-Ruiz and a small team in Western Australia, this award-winning campaign has grown into one of the world's most influential environmental movements. Each July, millions globally participate, often extending their commitment to reducing plastic pollution well beyond the month. Be part of the change for a cleaner, plastic-free planet!
Source: Plastic Free July®
17th June 2024
Measuring Reuse Activity and Impacts in NSW
The NSW reuse sector rehomes millions of secondhand goods annually. This project, using Monash University's National Reuse Measurement Guidelines, quantified reuse activities and impacts. Funded by NSW EPA and led by Charitable Reuse Australia, the study by Rawtec shows significant benefits, including job creation, consumer savings, charitable funding, and carbon emissions reductions. The findings support the development of policies to advance NSW’s circular economy.
Source: Charitable Reuse
11th June 2024
Say Hello to BioPak's Revolutionary PHA Compostable Packaging
BioPak has launched its PHA range, revolutionising home-compostable cups. Made from renewable resources like plant sugars and vegetable oils, PHA (polyhydroxyalkanoate) is a biopolymer produced through fermentation. These PHA-lined cups, made from FSC™ responsibly sourced paper, are entirely home compostable and contain no fossil-based materials. BioPak, the first to bring PHA to Australia, highlights the innovation's potential for sustainable packaging.
Source: Inside waste
5th June 2024
Can Australia Achieve Its Renewable Energy Superpower Ambitions?
Sample Hidden in southern Sydney's bushland, SunDrive Solar develops a breakthrough formula to replace silver with copper in solar cells, addressing cost and environmental issues. Supported by Australia's Future Made in Australia plan, which aims to boost green industries with $22.7bn in incentives, the initiative seeks to transform Australia into a renewable energy superpower. Experts debate if this funding is sufficient to overcome the nation’s reliance on fossil fuels and raw mineral exports.
Source: BBC
12th June 2024
How Coca-Cola Europacific Partners is Shaping a Sustainable Future
Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP) is leading sustainability efforts by upgrading cooling systems in German facilities, reducing electricity usage by 90%. This move is part of CCEP’s broader goal to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 30% by 2030 and achieve climate neutrality by 2040. Using Rittal’s Blue e+ cooling units, CCEP demonstrates how advanced climate control technologies can reduce environmental impact and enhance operational reliability, setting a benchmark for sustainable industrial practices in Australia and globally.
Source: Food & Beverage Industry News
11th June 2024
Marie Claire Celebrates The Winners Of The 2024 Sustainability Awards
Honoring 28 nominees across seven categories—fashion, accessories, beauty, health and wellness, home and lifestyle, parenting, food and drink, and travel—the event highlighted brands and individuals championing sustainability. Notable winners included Maggie Marilyn for sustainable fashion, Emma Lewisham for circular beauty, and Ugly Vodka for reducing food waste. Judges Georgie Abay, Andie Halas, Clare Press, and Lottie Dalziel celebrated these inspiring achievements, paving the way for a sustainable future.
Source: Marie Claire
June 2024
7 Ways to Support our Planet on World Rainforest Day
Rainforests, though covering only about 2% of the Earth's surface, play a crucial role in sustaining life on our planet. They provide essential resources like air, water, medicine, and food, while also combating climate change by absorbing greenhouse gases. Here are seven ways you can contribute to the preservation of rainforests and support their vital role in our world.
Source: Pure Planet Club
22nd June 2024
World Rainforest Day 2024: The Year of Action
On June 22nd, join us in celebrating World Rainforest Day 2024! This year's theme, "The Year of Action," highlights the crucial role of rainforests in sustaining our planet’s climate, biodiversity, cultures, and livelihoods. We invite you to be part of a global movement dedicated to protecting and restoring these vital ecosystems. Together, we can ensure a future where rainforests remain standing and our planet thrives. Take action with us for a greener, healthier world!
Source: World Rainforest Day
May 2024
Sustainable Choice Group becomes B Corp
Sustainable Choice Group is thrilled to announce its official B Corp Certification, with an impressive overall B Impact Score of 93.5. This certification reflects the group's commitment to accelerating sustainable change in mass market consumption through education, collaboration, and communication. Sustainable Choice Group continues to drive positive impact across governance, workers, community, environment, and customers, making a significant difference in the world. Their app just went live too!
Source: blabs
3rd June 2024
Mirvac partners with RCYCL
Mirvac’s retail centres are launching the Cool New Era winter campaign in partnership with RCYCL, encouraging customers to recycle unwearable clothing through collection boxes. Highlighting sustainable retailers, the initiative aims to make a positive environmental impact. Weekly recycling totals will be shared, and customers can win $5,000 for a winter refresh by participating in centre activities.
Source: shoppingcentrenews
21st May 2024
Aesop revamps storefronts with algae-based window decals
Australian beauty brand Aesop has transformed 38 storefronts in Australia and New Zealand with algae-based window decals by bioplastic artist Jessie French. These eco-friendly, reusable decals provide a sustainable alternative to PVC. Discover how Aesop and Other Matter are revolutionizing retail with innovative, low-impact materials.
Source: Insideretail
20th May 2024
How AI is being used on the mission to reduce food waste
Artificial intelligence has proven to be impactful in the food industry, used as a tool to mitigate food waste and ensure that inventory management is optimised to ensure that there is no excess of food. AI is being used as a tool in grocery retail, curbing food loss that occurs as a result of spoilage and optimising inventory management, providing information of consumer demand so that retailers will not have an excess of product that would ultimately lead to food waste.
Source: foodmag
May 2024
Sustainable changes that can add value to your property
Sam Mullen outlines sustainable home upgrades for residents to reduce carbon footprints and save money. Tips include installing insulation, collecting rainwater, using solar power, adopting passive design techniques, planting trees, and participating in the Brisbane Carbon Challenge to further lower emissions and improve home value.
Source: sustainablebrisbane
May 2024
5 ways to thrift smartly
Dive into the world of thrifting with Abby Berthelsen as she unveils the hidden treasures and savvy secrets of second-hand shopping. Unravel the financial benefits and eco-conscious practices of thrifting while mastering the art of smart thrifting with insider tips and personal anecdotes. Join the journey to sustainable style and savings.
Source: sustainablebrisbane
May 2024
SNL highlight the consequences of fast fashion
Saturday Night Live recently created a skit that humorously highlights the consequences of fast fashion. By showcasing these effects to a mainstream audience, the show underscores the importance of addressing this critical issue.
Source: Instagram