Recycle: Don't Be A Waster!: Recent Episodes
Waster.com.au
In our weekly episodes of Recycle: Don't Be A Waster! - we talk about all things recycling, environment and waste industry related. We really believe that there are lots of simple recycling improvements that people can easily make - if they simply know the facts. This podcast takes a fresh look at recycling and does not shy away from tough questions like greenwashing, is recycling one big scam - or can recycling safe the world. Your presenters believe in the positive impact of recycling - but very much take a real world, business focused view on making practical real world change. Subscribe to our weekly podcasts to keep up to date with all the latest info - in a light, and hopefully enjoyable format.
Hey! Did WA Just Ban My Coffee Cup? :Recycle - Don't Be A Waster!
If there is one thing Aussie's love - it is their morning take away coffee - and anyone who messes with that could be in trouble!
WA has just banned non compostable coffee cups - and Waster agrees!
We discuss how sitting down and having an actual cup of coffee will be good for your health and help the environment
Should All Plastic Drinks Bottles Be Replaced With Aluminium?: Recycle - Don't Be A Waster!
In this episode we discuss whether plastic drinks bottles should all be replaced with aluminium.
Aluminium is common for drinks such as soft drinks and beer - but tends not to be used for water.
We discuss the list of problems with plastic such as microplastics, ocean pollution and increasing evidence of health problems.
Why A Startup Wants To Reduce Paper Receipts And Save The World: Recycle - Don't Be A Waster!
In this episode of our recycling podcast - we look at the environmental and potential health impacts of paper receipts - i.e. the type you receive as proof of purchase in any shop from supermarkets to other retailers.
We find out that the thermal paper used can not be recycled - and has major potential health benefits.
This is where an Aussie startup comes in with a solution
What Is A Nappy Tax In South Australia And Is It A Good Idea?: Recycle - Don't Be A Waster!
South Australia Nappy Tax - We have to assume that the government making their residents’ lives easier and more comfortable would be in their best interest. They have the purpose of serving their citizens by providing good and just governance, establishing beneficial laws, ensuring order and offering essential services. Of course, this includes making the best decisions in regards to waste management. However, one proposed rubbish disposal scheme dubbed the ‘nappy tax’ has been making news as of late which was met with a lot of controversy and criticism in South Australia. Let’s talk about it more below.
Do you live in South Australia and have any babies or toddlers in your house? If so, then you should be aware that a new waste disposal proposal in South Australia dubbed the nappy tax is being studied and could potentially be implemented.
The Green Industries department of South Australia is examining the concept of a ‘pay-as-you-throw’ waste disposal system, aiming to reduce household council rates whilst implementing increased fees based on the weight of rubbish placed for collection.
Obviously, a lot of South Australians opposed the idea. None of them would give it a chance, and with good reason. Here are some of the residents’ comments as interviewed by:
“It doesn’t make sense, it is not equitable,” one man told 9News Adelaide on Wednesday.
Another resident said council services needed to be “balanced and fair”.
“And I think we pay a lot already for everything, for every other service,” she said.
Is There A Solution To Ghost Nets In The Ocean?: Recycle - Don't Be A Waster!
In this week's episode - we look at the major issue of ghost nets or ghost gear. This is when old fishing nets and similar equipment is left floating in the sea.
As you can imagine this creates big issues with pollution and impacts wildlife - such as turtles.
Did you know the Top End of Australia is one of the worst impacted regions for this problem globally.
We discuss some recent programs from the Australian Government seeking to combat this issue.
Leaf Recycling - What's That About Then?: Recycle - Don't Be A Waster!
In this episode we look at leaf recycling and whether it will become an important factor in boosting recycling.
A new startup called Releaf Paper - https://www.releaf-paper.com/ is focusing on manufacturing paper and paper packaging from tree leafs instead of needing to cut down trees.
Three Great New Recycling Options For Aussies: Recycle - Don't Be A Waster!
In this episode we discuss three great recycling options that are free or low cost. They will help households and businesses recycle niche items whilst avoiding long car journeys of high costs.
Terracycle free drop offs - https://help.au.terracycle.com/hc/en-au/articles/4406783519501-How-can-I-find-my-nearest-public-drop-off-point-
Recyclesmart - https://www.recyclesmart.com/
Mates On The Move - https://matesonthemove.org/services/
Do We Really Inhale A Credit Card Worth Of Plastic Every Week?: Recycle - Don't Be A Waster!
In this episode we look at a recent academic study that suggests the average human breathes in microplastics each week - equivalent to the weight of a credit card.
This is quite shocking and brings with it multiple health concerns covering fertility issues as well as general health concerns.
We also comment how it has implications for some of the plastic re use ideas we have discussed on this podcast such as using waste plastic for plastic roads.
Samsara Eco Has An Amazing Breakthrough For Fabric Recycling? Recycle: Don't Be A Waster!
In this episode we cover how an aussi startup called Samsara Eco is making massive innovation in clothes recycling.
By using an enzyme to break down polyester and nylon into its chemical building blocks - they can recycle huge voumes of synthetic fibers.
They aim to open a plant in the USA and also have signed an agreement with sports wear and active wear company Lululemon - to partner in clothes recycling.
A real good news story.
Can You Recycle Mobile Phone Cases? Recycle: Don't Be A Waster!
We all have them and increasingly they are seen as fashion statements or collector items - we are talking about mobile phone cases.
These brightly coloured plastic protectors are changed even more often than the mobile phone itself.
In this episode we talk about some of the options available for recycling them in 2023.
What Can Be Done With Solar Panels? Recycle: Don't Be A Waster!
As we move to a cleaner energy model in Australia - it makes lots of sense to implement solar panels. This is particularly clear in the Sunshine State of Queensland.
In Queensland the State Government is discussing banning any ewaste including solar panels going to landfill.
If we do nothing - we are looking at over 10,000 tonnes of solar panel waste ending up in landfill in Qld, Australia alone.
Should Small Business Be Scared Of ESG? Recycle: Don't Be A Waster!
When you hear about ESG or Environment, Social and Governance - it can lead to various reactions.
Many small businesses worry they simply do not have the time or systems to focus on it.
Waster argues that it will be key to helping small businesses track, and improve their waste and environmental footprint.
Does The Redcycle Collapse Have A Silver Lining? Recycle: Don't Be A Waster!
Redcycle has collapsed - and Coles and Woolworths have been ordered to dispose of 5,200 metric tonnes of soft plastic waste by the EPA.
We look at this huge mess - and ask - is there a silver lining?
How To Recycle Wetsuits? Recycle: Don't Be A Waster!
In this episode we discuss how to recycle your old neoprene wetsuit using the Rip Curl / Terracycle recycling program.
The best thing about the recycling program is it is free to drop off your old wetsuit!
Can We Recycle All Plastics By 2040? Recycle: Don't Be A Waster!
We discuss the announcement by the Australian Government that the country will recycle all plastics by 2040. Is this plausible? Is this good news or is it just more of the same wishcycling that has seen Redcycle in trouble?
What Happened To Redcycle? Recycle: Don't Be A Waster!
We discuss what happened to the major soft plastics recycling business - Redcycle - which collected plastic bags and other soft plastics at major supermarkets in Australia. We discuss the problem with soft plastic recycling and if incineration is a better option.
How Much Money Do Plastic Recyclers Make?. Recycle: Don't Be A Waster!
Many people ask can they make a fortune by starting a plastic recycling business - in today's episode we explore that question - and discuss some of the negatives.
It certainly is not as easy as you may think - and would not qualify as a "gold mine" in normal language.
We Take A Look At Composting Food Waste. Recycle: Don't Be A Waster!
In this episode we take a look at composting - as an alternative to landfill for food waste, organic waste and some items you maybe have not thought of as compostable.
We mention some interesting websites such as the food waste sharing platform
If you have no room for a compost bin - check out sharewaste.com - a platform where you can find people in your area who want your organic waste! Another great option is a worm farm such as wickworming.com.au - which makes great options for homes and offices alike.
Can We Recycle Clothes, Shoes And Books?. Recycle: Don't Be A Waster!
In this episode we discuss the possibility of a national or municipal collection for books, clothes and shoes.
There are some programs available at moment - but a huge amount of items - that are not high enough quality to be sold - often end up going to landfill. Let's look at the options.
Why Fining Is The Wrong Approach. Recycle: Don't Be A Waster!
In this podcast episode on all things recycling - we discuss why fining people is not always the best way to get people to make the right recycling decisions.
Aodhan discusses the Perth council that is proposing fining people $5000 for having a smelly bin!
Why Recycling Innovation Gets So Little Investment! Recycle: Don't Be A Waster!
For such a huge and important sector - recycling innovation does not seem to receive investment from venture capitalists - in the way we may expect. We discuss the possible reasons for this in today's podcast.
Can Burning Waste Save Europe? Recycle: Don't Be A Waster!
In this episode of our recycling podcast - we discuss how waste contains huge amounts of energy - that can be released through incineration or digestion methods (for organic waste).
We argue this can help Europe get through this winter as they face huge energy shortages due to turning off of Russian gas.
What Is A Waste Audit? Recycle: Don't Be A Waster!
There is an old saying that if you can not measure something - you can not improve it and this applies to recycling as much as anything else.
A waste audit is the primary method to really understand what you are recycling and how much room for improvement you have.
Who Is Right On Ewaste - Vic Or NSW? Recycle: Don't Be A Waster!
In this episode we ask is it important to ban ewaste in landfill or is guidance alone enough. There are so many good options for recycing ewaste in 2022 - and for private homes - they are mostly free.
How Do We Decrease Recycling Contamination?: Don't Be A Waster!
In this episode - we discuss ways to decrease recycling contamination - i.e. remove rubbish from recycling bins - which will increase recycling performance and help the entire environment and recycling system. We look at potential solutions such as education and clear bins.
A Cartoon About Recycling!: Don't Be A Waster!
In this episode of our recycling podcast we introduce a recycling cartoon and our new characters. We have new cartoon characters that will help bring recycling and the environment to a new demographic.
Mr Waster - or Wally is the local recycling expert in the lovely town of Seahaven.
What Free Cardboard Recycling Really Means: Don't Be A Waster!
Every wants something for free - or better yet - be paid for your recycling. Many people ask Waster can we collect cardboard waste for free - and the answer is - well, it depends!
We cover the economics of cardboard recycling in today's podcast.
In this episode - we discuss how biomethane will help us reduce reliance on traditional carbon based fuels and provide a base electricity from human waste. This will enable us to supplement wind, solar and other renewable but fluctuating energy sources.
For once - let's give ourselves a clap on the back and say well done. Australia is quite rapidly phasing out lots of single use plastics. Which is great. Lots of things we have been advocating for are actually happening!
Most states and Territories are quite advanced in the phase out of single use plastics from cotton buds, to plastic bags and coffee cups.
In this episode - we talk about how mushroom packaging can be a real and environmentally friendly alternative to expanded polystyrene or styrofoam.
It seems like a win win and has no reduction in utility or ease of use for consumers
In this episode - we discuss what policies we would push as regards the environment and recycling if we were runing for election in the 2022 Federal Election.
Lots of parties are spruiking their environmental policies - so we join the fray!
How To Get Men To Say No To Plastic! Recycle: Don't Be A Waster!
Men can be stubborn - i know - I am super stubborn.
But - this week I stopped using plastic bottles. I learned about the impact plastic has on reproductive health and sperm count.
Is Donating Better Than Recycling. Recycle: Don't Be A Waster!
It is always good to reuse or donate an item rather than recycling - or even worse - dumping.
However - donating in 2022 may not be as easy as we would like.
We look at some options that are available.
Microplastics - I Do Not Like Them! Recycle: Don't Be A Waster!
Plastics have lots of environmental negatives - and you can certainly add the issue of microplastics to that growing list.
There is now evidence that microplastics are in sealife, salt, beer, bottled water and now even human blood and organs!
Is it not time we all started asking some questions?
We hear it all the time - and many companies argue recycling can save you money - so we investigate!
Can recycling save you money?
Yes - up to a point but in 2022 it will not reduce your costs to zero - and at a certain point it will be cost neutral at best.
Let's Talk About A Problem Called Food Waste: Recycle - Don't Be A Waster!
In today's podcast we discuss what to do with food waste from composting, to food waste bins - and covering biogas, waste to water machines and worm farms.
What more could you want?
Are you not entertained?
We look at a recycling plan in the context of a shopping centre food court.
Why are small achievable steps really important?
Sometimes it is best to achieve 50% than aim for the sky and achieve nothing.
In this episode of our recycling podcast we look at return and earn schemes or container deposit schemes. Do they work to boost recycling. We look at some facts.
Can you earn a living collecting bottles and cans?
We also look at a new bag that can help you boost your bottles and cans.
Why Sushi Uses So Much Plastic? : Recycle: Don't Be A Waster!
In this episode - we do a Seinfeld. Sushi - what is that about!
Why do sushi shops in Australia use so much plastic - from plastic containers, to chop sticks to sachets for soy sauce, ginger and wasabi.
I honestly do not understand why!
How Upcycling Cooking Oil Can Drive Our Economy
In today's episode - we talk about how Auscol and cooking oil recycling can really help the environment and reduce reliance on imported fuels.
In this episode we discuss the new program by the Australian Federal Government - Remade In Australia.
We discuss what this is - and how it is different from older, more traditional recycling programmes.
How Long Does Waste "Live" In Landfill?: Recycle: Don't Be A Waster! In this episode of our podcast on all things recycling - we discuss how long waste of all types lasts in landfill before decomposing.
From the simplest items like an orange peel - to plastic items - that last almost forever.
In this episode Aodhan goes on a rant about nappy / diaper recycling or lack thereof in Australia.
Is he right or wrong - tell us what you think.1
Did you know that all nappies in Australia end up in landfill in 2022?
In this episode we talk about plastic bottle tops or bottle caps.
We probably all see about 5 of them every day.
They can not go in commingled bins - so what can we do with them.
We talk about Envision Hands, Terracycle and also:
https://www.lids4kids.org.au/
https://oceancrusaders.org/recycling/
In this episode of our podcast we look at how MRFs work - i.e. Material Recycling Facilities - also called Material Recovery Facilities.
These are very large facilities that separate recycling streams so they can be recycled.
Pizza Boxes - Yeah Or Nay. We all eat pizzas - or at least most of us - and if you are me - far too often - judging by my waist line!
Can we recycle pizza boxes - can we put them in our regular cardboard bin?
We discuss the facts - like whether you need to clean them - or just wipe off excess grease.
In this episode - Aodhan discusses the one material we absolutely must recycle - as it is easily recyclable, saves lots of energy and can be recycled over and over again. What is it? - auminium.We also talk about recycling aluminium foil or tin foil.
In this episode of our recycling podcast we talk about 3 free recycling options that are available throughout Australia.
We discuss free drop off points for tricky to recycle items such as :
plastic bags
batteries
ewaste
coffee cups.
Hopefully this info helps you stick to your 2022 recycling goals!
In this episode of our recycling podcast - we ask is incineration all bad or does it have a role to play in waste management.
Some people even argue that incineration should be regarded as green energy. We explore the issue - and go through some arguments pro and con.
We Look At How EPR Can Help Recycling: Recycle: Don't Be A Waster
In this episode of our podcast we look at Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and ask if this can help us recycle and reduce waste. EPR is when a producer has to pay in some form to dispose of products also.
In this episode of Recycle: Don't Be A Waster! - we look at the issue of waste and recycling - and ask is this a modern problem? Did this issue occur in the past? We also look at why landfills were invented.
In this episode of Recycle: Don't Be A Waster - we ask whether it is possible that in the future - you will be paid for your waste and recycling? Rather than a cost - is it possible - that you will get a cash payment for your waste? We discuss the value in waste such as recycling and energy production.
In this episode of our podcast - we discuss how deindustrialisation can benefit the environment in a former industrial region - but it has a hidden impact of making recycling much harder and less efficient.
In our third episode of our podcast - we ask the question is recycling just a big con job. Does our recycling just end up in landfill? We know you all love a conspiracy - but we ask the real questions.
In this first full episode of our podcast on Recycle: Don't Be A Waster - we look at the recent comments made by British PM - Boris Johnson - that recycling plastic is not the solution. We discuss if he was right of wrong - and discuss the various concepts. Plastic recycling is great - but we argue that prevention is better than cure.
Recycle: Don't Be A Waster! Pilot Episode In this first episode of our new podcast - we discuss what we hope to achieve. We will be publishing a weekly podcast on the wide and wonderful world of all things recycling, environment and the waste industry. We have a real belief in the positive aspects of recycling - and how it cann benefit the world. We will however, take quite a tough, real world approach and ask tough questions - such as if recycling is a waste of time, if it is all a big con job and other questions.
The podcast will be light, hopefully funny, entertaining and informative. Wish us luck!