Waste Management Review May 2024

Waste Management Review

MAY 2024

At the crux HSR Southern Cross: Pushing the boundaries in waste management equipment

2024 | MAY | ISSUE 84 www.wastemanagementreview.com.au

FEATURES

Cultivating change Solid foundations Game-changing machinery Circular solutions

PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY:

PMS 380 PMS 376 PMS 355

COVER STORY

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WATT’S NEXT? Australia’s battery recycling scheme is under review to help combat market pressures for the industry.

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LANDMARK OPPORTUNITIES

HSR Southern Cross has toiled with hearts and hands to set benchmarks in the waste equipment sector.

“STAYING AHEAD OF INDUSTRY TRENDS AND CUSTOMER EXPECTATIONS HAS POSITIONED HSR SOUTHERN CROSS AS A TRUSTED NAME IN THE WASTE EQUIPMENT SECTOR.” - Jake Henderson, National General Manager of Sales and Business Development

In this issue Features 06 THE BREAKDOWN

27 WATT’S NEXT?

08 PLASTIC POLLUTION

31 SOLID FOUNDATIONS

48 TECH SUPPORT

18 CULTIVATING CHANGE

35 PLASTIC PIPE POWER

50 NEW MODEL

20

38 WASTE LEVY WINDFALL Regulars

Industry decision makers ponder what is the biggest challenge facing the organics industry.

New science estimates up to 11 million tonnes of plastic pollution is sitting on the ocean floor.

Pure Environmental demonstrates the benefits of compost to support its uptake into agriculture.

GREEN CREDENTIALS

Taking the guesswork out of choosing genuinely compostable items.

23 ORGANIC OPPORTUNITIES

An in-vessel compost facility is helping meet organics recycling targets.

Australia’s battery recycling scheme is under review to help combat market pressures for the industry.

An iconic project in South Australia highlights the potential to lift Australia’s C&D waste recovery rates.

Changing attitudes towards the importance of plastic pipes.

Shining a light on operational purpose deductions for councils.

42 CHANGING GEARS

In-house manufacturing helps Liebherr specialist machines shift with industry.

FORCE TO 46 ARECKON WITH

Bucher Municipal demonstrates its new FORCE Series 3 front loader body on IVECO ACCO. Positioning technology is helping to extend the life of landfill cells.

Things are about to be shaken up with the arrival of a monster compactor.

53 PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT 57 LAST WORD

www.wastemanagementreview.com.au / WMR / 3

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

Christine Clancy christine.clancy@primecreative.com.au

PUBLISHER

Sarah Baker sarah.baker@primecreative.com.au

From the Editor

Let’s play it safe

In 2022, batteries were removed from the environment minister’s priority list in recognition of the work by the Battery Stewardship Council (BSC) and Australia’s battery stewardship scheme, B-cycle.

Within two years B-cycle has helped establish more than 5000 community drop-off points, and injected more than $22 million into the domestic battery recycling industry.

But earlier this year, the BSC brought forward the scheme’s reauthorisation by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) in light of economic circumstances and “the changing risk profile of batteries”.

Incorrect disposal of end-of-life batteries is an increasing concern across the waste management and recycling sector. According to data, lithium-ion batteries alone are believed to have caused more than 1000 fires across Australia in the past 12 months – that’s almost three fires a day.

Batteries do not belong in household rubbish or recycling bins. Incorrect disposal is putting waste and recycling staff in danger – from truck drivers to workers on sorting lines – at material recovery facilities.

But how do you get the message across?

Despite a national rollout of collection recycling drop-off points, which means everyone across Australia has a local solution only a few minutes from their homes and businesses, and numerous safety campaigns from state environment protection authorities, waste associations and even fire authorities, the problem is rising.

In this edition of Waste Management Review we speak with Libby Chaplin, BSC Chief Executive Officer, about the importance of increasing awareness about the scheme and its safety campaigns.

While industry and governments are aligned on the need to reduce the risk of battery fires, let’s hope there’s a way to get more of the community on board.

Happy reading.

Lisa Korycki

4 � WMR � May 2024

MANAGING EDITOR

Mike Wheeler mike.wheeler@primecreative.com.au

EDITOR

Lisa Korycki lisa.korycki@primecreative.com.au

JOURNALIST

Chris Edwards chris.edwards@primecreative.com.au

DESIGN PRODUCTION MANAGER Michelle Weston michelle.weston@primecreative.com.au

ART DIRECTOR

Blake Storey blake.storey@primecreative.com.au

DESIGN

Kerry Pert, Caterina Zappia

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ARTICLES

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COVER

Cover image: Hamish McIntosh

COPYRIGHT

Waste Management Review is owned by Prime Creative Media and published by John Murphy.

All material in Waste Management Review is copyright and no part may be reproduced or copied in any form or by any means (graphic, electronic or mechanical including information and retrieval systems) without written permission of the publisher. The Editor welcomes contributions but reserves the right to accept or reject any material. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information, Prime Creative Media will not accept responsibility for errors or omissions or for any consequences arising from reliance on information published. The opinions expressed in Waste Management Review are not necessarily the opinions of, or endorsed by the publisher unless otherwise stated.

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OPINION

The Breakdown

‘The Breakdown’ is a monthly column giving industry leaders and decision makers a chance to share their views on topics central to the sector.

This month we asked: “What is the biggest challenge facing the organics industry?”

Image: AORA

Image: MRA Consulting Group

John McKew National Executive Officer Australian Organics Recycling Association

Virginia Brunton Principal Consultant of the Organics and Education team at MRA Consulting Group

Kali Martin General Manager – Organic Recycling WestRex Organics, a subsidiary of Pure Environmental

Contamination of the feedstock stream remains the single biggest challenge facing the organics recycling industry.

Contamination of feedstock is the biggest challenge facing the organics industry.

The challenge for the organic recycling industry is end-market establishment and consistent product quality.

There is the obvious (yet unnecessary) visual contamination – plastic bags, glass, various packaging, and almost anything else you can conceivably think of that should not be there – and then there is the contamination you cannot see, micro plastics, PFAS, and other chemicals.

Contamination is costly and difficult to manage and impossible to remove in total but has to be more effectively managed across the whole supply chain. Unless we can get a cleaner feedstock stream with reduced contamination, you cannot produce a recycled organics product that will be completely free of contamination. In the IT industry they talk about garbage in, garbage out and the same applies to recycled organics.

Physical contamination is manageable albeit expensive and higher gate fees compensate for effort. However underlying chemical contamination is a greater and increasing threat and out of processors control.

Strict and unrealistic limits on chemicals such as PFAS may render all recycled organics fit only for landfilling.

Regulators need to take a consistent and considered approach if RO are to continue to be able to be recovered for beneficial use, particularly in agriculture.

Image: Pure Environmental

The industry holds immense promise for sustainable agriculture – composting presents a vital solution to replenish soil nutrients depleted by intensive farming practices.

Through education and fit-for-purpose products, we can meet the needs of farmers and other end users, driving demand for compost.

Government support and procurement strategies can further accelerate market growth. By standardising and consistently regulating quality control measures, we ensure the safety and effectiveness of compost products, building trust among consumers.

With the collaboration of the key stakeholders, we can unlock the full potential of organic recycling, supporting a more sustainable future for agriculture and the planet.

If you or someone at your organisation is an industry leader and would like to be a part of this monthly column in 2024, please get in touch with Editor, Lisa Korycki lisa.korycki@primecreative.com.au 6 � WMR � May 2024

OPINION

Image: Resource Hub

Image: Repurpose It

Lacey Webb Chief Executive Officer Resource Hub

Ashley Johnston General Manager Organics Repurpose It

Clearly the biggest challenge right now is asbestos – if for no other reason than it’s so highly publicised. But really, I think it’s contamination more broadly and inconsistent approaches to organics across Australia. PFAS contamination is a struggle – especially in Queensland, with detection limits so low that the industry’s hands are tied in many ways.

One of the biggest challenges for the organics industry is community education. The rollout of Food Organics, Garden Organics (FOGO) bins across the country is a commendable initiative for waste reduction, but its success hinges on effective communication.

Contamination in bins and self haul loads continue to be a struggle. The move from GO to FOGO, or the lack of movement in some regions, means that previously easily recovered GO products now need to contend with a FO portion and long-standing education that may no longer be fit-for-purpose. And depending on the state, if one region has a GO program, but their neighbour is now implementing FOGO, the messaging across a region can become muddled.

Even as we work to solve the contamination challenges, and move toward mandated FOGO in some states, who will process the materials?

What offtakes will exist for the product? The lack of end markets is a notable hurdle across regional Australia, and too often still involves fire permits.

We need to help bridge the knowledge gap among households regarding what materials can go into their FOGO bins, especially with there being differences between each council.

Misinformation or lack of awareness can lead to misunderstanding on what item can put in FOGO bins.

The challenge is intensified by the need to alter long-standing waste disposal habits and misconceptions about organic waste.

We need to create clear, consistent, engaging communications and ongoing educational efforts to ensure widespread understanding and participation in FOGO recycling.

www.wastemanagementreview.com.au / WMR / 7

FEATURE NEWS

A reservoir for plastic pollution New science estimates up to 11 million tonnes of plastic pollution is sitting on the ocean floor.

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very minute, a garbage truck’s worth of plastic enters the ocean.

With plastic use expected to double by 2040, understanding how and where it travels is crucial to protecting marine ecosystems and wildlife.

Dr Denise Hardesty, Senior Research Scientist with the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), said new research by the agency and the University of Toronto in Canada, is the first estimate of how much plastic waste ends up on the ocean floor, where it accumulates before being broken down into smaller 8 � WMR � May 2024

pieces and mixed into ocean sediment.

“We know that millions of tonnes of plastic waste enter our oceans every year but what we didn’t know is how much of this pollution ends up on our ocean floor,” Dr Hardesty said.

“We discovered that the ocean floor has become a resting place, or reservoir, for most plastic pollution, with between three to 11 million tonnes of plastic estimated to be sinking to the ocean floor.

“While there has been a previous estimate of microplastics on the sea floor, this research looks at larger items,

from nets and cups to plastic bags and everything in between.”

Alice Zhu, a PhD Candidate from the University of Toronto who led the study, said the estimate of plastic pollution on the ocean floor could be up to 100 times more than the amount of plastic floating on the ocean’s surface.

“The ocean surface is a temporary resting place of plastic so it is expected that if we can stop plastic entering our oceans, the amount would be reduced.

However, our research found that plastic will continue to end up in the deep ocean, which becomes a permanent

Every minute, a garbage truck’s worth of plastic enters the ocean.

Image: Rich Carey / shutterstock.com

resting place or sink for marine plastic pollution,” Zhu said.

Scientific data was used to build two predictive models to estimate the amount and distribution of plastic on the ocean floor – one based on data from remote operated vehicles (ROVs) and the other from bottom trawls.

Using ROV data, three to 11 million metric tonnes of plastic pollution is estimated to reside on the ocean floor.

The ROV results also reveal that plastic mass clusters around continents – about half (46 per cent) of the predicted plastic mass on the global ocean floor

resides above 200 metres depth. The ocean depths, from 200 metres to as deep as 11,000 metres contains the remainder of predicted plastic mass (54 per cent).

Although inland and coastal seas cover much less surface area than oceans (11 per cent vs 56 per cent out of the entire Earth’s area), these areas are predicted to hold as much plastic mass as does the rest of the ocean floor.

“These findings help to fill a longstanding knowledge gap on the behaviour of plastic in the marine environment,” Zhu said. “Understanding

the driving forces behind the transport and accumulation of plastic in the deep ocean will help to inform source reduction and environmental remediation efforts, thereby reducing the risks that plastic pollution may pose to marine life.”

The article, Plastics in the deep sea – A global estimate of the ocean floor reservoir, was published in Deep Sea Research Part I: Oceanographic Research Papers.

This research is part of CSIRO’s Ending Plastic Waste Mission, which aims to change the way we make, use, recycle and dispose of plastic. www.wastemanagementreview.com.au / WMR / 9

FEATURE NEWS

C

PFAS detection

A new sensor detects harmful ‘forever chemicals’ in drinking water

hemists have designed a sensor that detects tiny quantities of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) – chemicals found in food packaging, nonstick cookware, and many other consumer products.

Also known as ‘forever chemicals’ because they don’t break down naturally, PFAS have been linked to a variety of harmful health effects.

Using the new sensor technology, researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology showed that they could detect PFAS levels as low as 200 parts per trillion in a water sample.

The device they designed could offer a way for consumers to test their drinking water, and be useful in industries that rely heavily on PFAS chemicals, including the manufacture of semiconductors and firefighting equipment.

“There’s a real need for these sensing technologies. We’re stuck with these chemicals for a long time, so we need to be able to detect them and get rid of them,” says Timothy Swager, the John D. MacArthur Professor of Chemistry

at MIT and the senior author of the study. Other authors of the paper are former MIT postdoc and lead author Sohyun Park and MIT graduate student Collette Gordon.

SENSOR TECHNOLOGY Coatings containing PFAS chemicals are used in thousands of consumer products.

In addition to nonstick coatings for cookware, they are commonly used in water-repellent clothing, stain-resistant fabrics, grease-resistant pizza boxes, cosmetics, and firefighting foams.

PFAS have been in widespread use since the 1950s and can be released into water, air, and soil, from factories, sewage treatment plants, and landfills. They have been found in drinking water sources in all 50 states across the United States.

A 2011 University of Queensland survey of PFAS levels in drinking water in Australia showed that no levels exceeded the limits in the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines. The survey demonstrated that very low levels of PFAS are detectable in drinking water

around Australia. The study also detected PFAS in bottled water.

In 2023, the US Environmental Protection Agency determined “health advisory levels” for two of the most hazardous PFAS chemicals, known as perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctyl sulfonate (PFOS), in drinking water, setting them at 0.004 parts per trillion and 0.02 parts per trillion, respectively.

Currently, the only way that a consumer could determine if their drinking water contains PFAS is to send a water sample to a laboratory that performs mass spectrometry testing. That can take several weeks and costs hundreds of dollars.

To create a cheaper and faster way to test for PFAS, the MIT team designed a sensor based on lateral flow technology – the same approach used for rapid Covid-19 tests and pregnancy tests.

Instead of a test strip coated with antibodies, the new sensor is embedded with a special polymer known as polyaniline, which can switch between

10 � WMR � May 2024

Waste Ma

that can pull fluorocarbons such as PFAS out of a drop of water placed on the strip. When this happens, protons from the PFAS are drawn into the polyaniline and turn it into a conductor, reducing the electrical resistance of the material.

This change in resistance, which can be measured precisely using electrodes and sent to an external device such as a smartphone, gives a quantitative measurement of how much PFAS is present.

This approach works only with PFAS that are acidic, which includes two of the most harmful PFAS – PFOA and perfluorobutanoic acid (PFBA).

A new sensor developed by chemists could offer a cheap, fast way to test for PFAS in drinking water.

Image: P. Qvist / shutterstock.com

semiconducting and conducting states when protons are added to the material.

The researchers deposited these polymers onto a strip of nitrocellulose paper and coated them with a surfactant

A USER�FRIENDLY SYSTEM The current version of the sensor can detect concentrations as low as 200 parts per trillion for PFBA, and 400 parts per

trillion for PFOA using only a fraction of a millilitre of water. The researchers are working on a larger-scale device that would be able to filter about a litre of water through a membrane made of polyaniline. They believe this approach should increase the sensitivity by more than a hundredfold.

Such a device could offer a less expensive, rapid alternative to current PFAS detection methods. If PFAS are detected in drinking water, there are commercially available filters that can be used on household drinking water to reduce those levels.

The new testing approach could also be useful for factories that manufacture products with PFAS chemicals, so they could test whether the water used in their manufacturing process is safe to release into the environment.

SHAPE THE FUTURE OF RESPONSIBLE WASTE MANAGEMENT Learn more and get in touch today

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Images: Hamish McIntosh

COVER STORY

HSR Southern Cross has built a reputation on manufacturing products tailored to customer needs.

At the crux

HSR Southern Cross has toiled with hearts and hands to set benchmarks in the waste equipment sector. Now, the stars have aligned as the Australian-owned company lays out an ambitious roadmap to expansion.

E

ffective waste management is a crucial aspect of any operation, regardless of size. Providing tailored waste solutions has been the driving force behind HSR Southern Cross since its inception in 2002.

Founder Martyn Cross recognised the need for a company that not only delivered top-notch products and services but prioritised customer satisfaction and innovation.

More than two decades later, his vision to create a dynamic organisation that could redefine the standards of waste industry service and manufacturing has come to life and is on the cusp of expansion.

Jake Henderson, National General Manager of Sales and Business

Development, says HSR Southern Cross has built a foundation rooted in quality, reliability, and a passion for waste equipment manufacturing excellence.

A commitment to these principles has played a pivotal role in the company’s growth and success.

“The founding principles not only shaped the company’s identity but continue to guide its operations,” Jake says. “Staying ahead of industry trends and customer expectations has positioned HSR Southern Cross as a trusted name in the waste equipment sector.”

The family-owned business in Western Sydney is an Australian-owned and certified manufacturer of hook loaders, skip loaders, tarping systems, and rear-

load refuge compactors. With more than 120 years of combined knowledge in engineering, design, and manufacture, it offers a national network of distributors and approved service partners from the Pilbara to Launceston and everywhere in between.

It caters to a diverse range of businesses and organisations – from waste management companies to municipal councils and commercial enterprises involved in waste collection and disposal – that rely on efficient truck-mounted waste equipment.

Jake says understanding that waste management demands vary across industries and sectors allows HSR to serve both public and private sector clients.

The company has collaborated with www.wastemanagementreview.com.au / WMR / 13

COVER STORY

businesses of different scales, from small enterprises to large corporations. And because its products and solutions cater to the specific needs of each customer, each piece of equipment meets the stringent requirements of various applications.

He says lasting relationships have been built with a broad spectrum of clients because of HSR’s commitment to providing tailored solutions and exceptional customer service.

“We understand that our success is intrinsically linked to the satisfaction of our clients,” Jake says. “Therefore, we go above and beyond to provide exceptional support, ensuring that every customer interaction with HSR is marked by professionalism, responsiveness, and a genuine commitment to their needs.”

Meeting those needs and manufacturing equipment that stands up to Australia’s harsh conditions means a continual process of refinement. HSR doesn’t rest

Aussie Industries has purchased two HSR -SX 85 (Isuzu FSR 4x2) skip loaders, which will be used to navigate tight spaces within the inner Sydney area.

14 � WMR � May 2024

on its laurels but actively seeks ways to enhance its products and services.

Jake says the expert team takes pride in offering truck-mounted waste equipment that is 100 per cent Australian-made and designed. This ensures a level of quality and reflects a dedication to precision and craftsmanship. It also means clients benefit from cutting-edge solutions that reflect the latest advancements in the industry.

“We don’t just meet standards; we set them,” he says. “We are consistently pushing the boundaries to set new benchmarks in the industry.

“HSR’s products are not just solutions; they are tailored responses to the dynamic and evolving needs of our customers in the waste management industry.”

TURNKEY SOLUTIONS Responding to industry needs has resulted in a dynamic partnership between HSR

and Wagga Isuzu. Over the past three years, this partnership has filled a gap in the market and left an indelible mark on the industry, selling more than 140 vehicles to customers across Australia.

Luke Harris, Isuzu Trucks Sales Manager, says by pooling their resources and knowledge, Wagga Motors and HSR have provided the market with a turnkey solution for waste vehicles.

This approach meant that customers no longer had to endure lengthy waiting periods or navigate the complexities of piecemeal solutions. Instead, they could turn to Wagga Motors and HSR to deliver fully assembled, ready-to-use waste vehicles promptly and efficiently.

What sets the collaboration apart, Luke says, is its unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction.

“Recognising the inherent challenges faced by businesses in the waste management sector, Wagga Motors and

Luke Harris, Isuzu Trucks Sales Manager Wagga Motors; Drew Robinson, Fleet Manager Aussie Industries; Scott Palmer, Head Mechanic Aussie Industries; Mitchell Palmer, Co-Chief Operating Officer, Aussie Industries; and Jake Henderson, National General Manager Sales and Business Development HSR Southern Cross.

HSR sought to alleviate these burdens by offering a one-stop service,” he says.

“From procurement to customisation, from assembly to delivery, every step of the process is seamlessly integrated, ensuring a hassle-free customer experience.

“Moreover, the benefits extend beyond convenience. The competitive pricing offered by Wagga Motors and HSR makes quality waste vehicles accessible to a wider range of businesses. By prioritising affordability without compromising on quality, they have democratised access to essential equipment, empowering businesses of all sizes to enhance their operations effectively.”

Looking ahead, Luke says the future appears bright for Wagga Motors and HSR. Buoyed by their shared successes and fuelled by a pursuit of excellence, they remain committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation and redefining service standards in the waste management sector.

“One thing remains certain: wherever there are challenges, opportunities, and a need for innovative solutions, Wagga Motors and HSR will be at the forefront, driving progress and transforming industries.”

DRIVING PROGRESS The waste management industry has undergone significant transformations over the years. Smart waste management, sustainability and recycling initiatives, circular economy practices and alternative waste-to-energy solutions are all on the radar.

The regulatory environment continues to evolve. HSR works with regulatory bodies to stay informed of changes and ensure its products comply with the latest industry standards.

Customer needs and preferences are more diverse and specialised. Recognising the importance of customisation, HSR products are designed to be highly adaptable.

Jake says that the need for skilled personnel has also become crucial as the industry changes. In response, HSR has expanded its commitment to customer support and training programs.

It offers comprehensive training for its customers’ teams, providing the necessary skills to operate and maintain equipment effectively.

“Our adaptability is a testament to our commitment to meeting the evolving needs of our customers and the dynamic challenges of the waste management sector,” he says.

And when it comes to challenges, there have been a few that have pushed the boundaries in terms of schedule and ability.

In the instance of tight deadlines, the company has optimised its production processes. It has also worked closely with the customer to meet delivery deadlines without compromising quality.

This is one area where the partnership with Wagga Motors plays an active role. www.wastemanagementreview.com.au / WMR / 15

COVER STORY

“Luke’s ability to source a chassis at the drop of a hat gives us the ability to achieve great results with tight schedules,” Jake says. “This is a win-win relationship for both parties and one that will continue for a long time.”

Some customers have requested technical requirements that demand specialised engineering solutions. HSR leverages in-house expertise to develop custom solutions.

“In each of these scenarios, our approach has been rooted in collaboration and a deep understanding of our customers’ needs,” Jake says. “We actively engage with our clients throughout the process, ensuring that their feedback is incorporated and that the final product not only meets but exceeds their expectations.”

CUSTOMER SATISFACTION Mitchell Palmer is the Co-Chief Operations Officer of Aussie Industries, a family-owned business that specialises in skip bin hire across Greater Sydney.

The company boasts a fleet of more than 4500 skip bins and 85 vehicles.

The latest acquisition, two HSR -SX 85 (Isuzu FSR 4x2) skip loaders, will be used to navigate tight spaces within the inner Sydney area.

Mitchell says selecting the HSR truck was a straightforward decision. It was the standout choice upon comparison, offering a two-year structural warranty, reinforced large bin stops that ensure team safety during operations but also safeguard the truck cabin, and strategically installed cylinder covers that provide additional protection for crucial lift and extension mechanisms.

But what drew them to HSR was aligning with Aussie Industries’ values and priorities – being Australian-owned and operated, committed to quality products, and investing in local talent to support communities.

“We’ve engaged HSR’s expertise on multiple occasions, specifically for 16 � WMR � May 2024

Aussie Industries has a long association with HSR.

hydraulic servicing and tarping systems support, including some challenges where other body manufacturers no longer provided parts or service,” Mitchell says.

“In each instance, the HSR team has exceeded our expectations, demonstrating unparalleled dedication to ensuring quick problem resolutions and keeping our fleet on the road.

“Their commitment and proactive approach to addressing our needs have been instrumental in maintaining the efficiency and reliability of our operations. It’s a partnership we deeply value and one that continues to foster mutual success.”

LOOKING AHEAD What does future success look like?

HSR has a strategic roadmap to fortify its market presence over the next decade.

There are plans to expand the sales team and establish service and fitting facilities nationwide to bolster the company’s outreach and strengthen customer relations. Jake says this geographical diversification will ensure that every customer, regardless of location, receives dedicated and confident service and product support, fostering stronger connections and trust.

HSR is proud to be Australianowned and operated.

HSR is gearing up for the introduction of innovative compaction bodies, broadening its product range to cater to an even wider spectrum of waste management needs. It’s also dedicated to ongoing improvement and augmentation of existing product offerings with a commitment to incorporating technological advancements, refining designs and responding to emerging industry trends.

The goal is to provide products that set benchmarks in efficiency and reliability.

That will involve investment in research and development.

“This initiative aims to foster innovation, explore new technologies, and stay ahead of the curve in anticipating and addressing the evolving needs of the waste management sector,” Jake says.

“We have ambitious goals that reflect our commitment to growth, innovation, and industry leadership.

“In 10 years, we aspire to see HSR as a nationally recognised and influential player in the waste management sector, setting new standards for excellence and sustainability.”

For more information, visit: www.hsrsx.com.au

FEATURED TOPIC � ORGANICS

Cultivating change O

Pure Environmental demonstrates the benefits of compost to support its uptake into agriculture.

rganics recycling has been identified as a significant opportunity for diversion of waste from landfills, and it forms a vital part of national and state circular economy strategies.

Kali Martin, General Manager of Organics for Pure Environmental, says it’s also one of the most fundamental ways to replenish soils for Australia’s food production.

“There is limited capacity for Australian soils to continue growing food,” Kali says.

“You can’t continue to pull resources out of the soil forever. What legacy are we leaving for future generations if we’re not putting something back?”

While compost is relatively new for many, Kali says there’s a quiet evolution unfolding. Faced with frequent extreme

A Demonstration Day held at the WestRex Organics facility in Leyburn, Queensland, gave farmers an overview of the composting process. Image: Pure Environmental.

18 � WMR � May 2024

weather events and rising fertiliser prices, a new generation of farmers recognises the need to do things differently.

Compost allows farmers to optimise what they get from soil by building up its quality and structure. And that’s where Pure Environmental comes in.

The team has extensive experience in the organic recycling industry, producing high quality compost, tested to Australian Standards.

Pure Environmental is selective about the feedstocks and the recipe for its compost. It’s also strict on quality assurance and monitoring to ensure optimal conditions for composting are maintained throughout the process.

It has the benefit of space and time to process material to a stabilised and mature compost. Two things that can affect the quality of the product.

Kali says a short processing time could mean compost is still breaking down when it’s sent to market, and the nutrients are not yet plant-available.

“We only compost a smaller range of feedstocks and go through a quality assurance process for any new feedstock that we are going to start to accept,” Kali says.

“We need to understand a lot about that feedstock, how it’s generated, and any potential for contamination. All material is laboratory tested, and only materials that are assessed and approved are allowed on site.”

Operating within a 3000-acre sheep and cattle farm in Queensland’s food bowl, Pure Environmental’s organics recycling facility is the perfect proving ground for its compost. It is also here that the company recently hosted a demonstration day for local farmers to spread the message.

Agronomists from RAFF Group provided an overview of how and why farmers could use compost, and equipment company Wideland Group provided a demonstration on the application of compost to paddocks. The demonstration day was designed to give an overview of compost, its benefits and how to apply it. Pure Environmental also opened a trial area on the farm for attendees to see the results.

“We had farmers who understood the general benefit of using compost but didn’t necessarily know who to get advice from or how to apply or spread it on their paddocks,” Kali says.

“The discussions were passionate, and people were so interested. It’s a slowmoving process, which is understandable;

for farmers, this is their livelihood. They need to really understand what compost is to make a change.

“We wanted to help them understand those things and build more awareness because we know our product can benefit them.”

And what are the benefits?

Compost provides a source of organic matter including carbon; building soil carbon improves soil structure and its ability to hold nutrients and water.

Compost also provides microbial activity and a range of micronutrients.

Kali says water retention is a big concern for farmers. Following a drought, soil can be poor quality and compacted. If there is a rainfall event, the rain will wash off, but soil that has a compost amendment and structure is able to hold onto the moisture for some time.

Increased microbial activity has a range of benefits, including making the soil more resilient to pests and diseases.

Compost can also work in unison with fertiliser to optimise its effectiveness.

In 2023, the Queensland Department of Environment and Science held several workshops to address farmer demand and market specifications for organic composts and materials.

Compost is loaded into equipment in preparation for spreading. Image: Pure Environmental.

Kali Martin, General Manager of Organics for Pure Environmental (second from left) and the team behind WestRex Organics’ compost. Image: Wideland Group.

At the time, John McKew, the Australian Organics Recycling Association (AORA) National Executive Officer, described compost as a highly renewable resource for maintaining and improving agricultural production. The time was right to start the conversation and education on the role of compost in

agriculture. Kali and Pure Environmental share this passion. Kali sits on the AORA board and chairs several Queensland organics working group activities.

She says one area of focus for the industry is having contemporary specifications that meet current industry needs in terms of incorporating new research and understanding about quality and contaminants.

“For the industry to grow, mature, and succeed, we also need to ensure these specifications are used consistently across the country,” Kali says. “We want to encourage processors to understand their market and ensure that they have adequate quality assurance programs in place to produce fit-forpurpose products.

“There are signs that things are changing. For our industry that means the market is going to continue to grow, and that’s positive for everyone.”

For more information, visit: www.purenv.com.au www.wastemanagementreview.com.au / WMR / 19

FEATURED TOPIC � ORGANICS

Green credentials

The Australasian Bioplastics Association is taking the guesswork out of choosing genuinely compostable items so everyone can compost with confidence.

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s Australia transitions to a circular economy and aims for net zero emissions, more consumers are making choices based on sustainability. Ensuring any environmental claims are backed up by robust evidence is critical for businesses that want to avoid any hint of greenwashing, says Rowan Williams.

The President of the Australasian Bioplastics Association (ABA) says verification and labelling are key to providing clarity for consumers and can help organisations achieve sustainable procurement goals.

He says there’s likely to be an increasing focus on claim verification and the authenticity of claims as the push towards transparency and reporting in the circular economy continues.

20 � WMR � May 2024

The ABA has been the peak body for the bioplastics industry in Australia and New Zealand since 2006, promoting the appropriate use of bioplastics that are certified compostable, based on renewable resources, or both.

Membership is from across the spectrum of the bioplastics industry, including manufacturers, converters, and distributors of bioplastic products and materials throughout the region.

Alongside its member-based activities, the ABA also administers several voluntary verification schemes, for companies or individuals who want to have their compliance to standards verified.

The schemes include one for Australian Standard (AS)47362006 – Biodegradable plastics suitable for composting and other

microbial treatment; AS5810-2010 – Biodegradable plastics suitable for home composting; and the newest – launched in 2023 – for ISO 23517:2021 – Plastics. Soil biodegradable materials for mulch films for use in agriculture and horticulture.

“Voluntary verification schemes, such as those administered by the ABA, are an effective tool for all parts of the organics recovery value chain to easily identify certified compostable and certified soil biodegradable items and ensure that the product meets the requirements for the intended end of life recovery,” Rowan says.

“Most people are probably more familiar with the verification schemes than they think, through seeing the associated logos on everyday items.”

Each verification scheme can support circularity and the organics value chain in different ways. The most familiar is the ‘commercial’ AS47362006 certification and corresponding ‘Australasian seedling’ logo.

To be certified compostable and carry the seedling logo, items considered suitable for verification must undergo a stringent test regime outlined by AS4736 and carried out by independent accredited laboratories.

The seedling logo is used on, among other items, certified compostable food organic, garden organic (FOGO) caddy liners, certain food service ware items, and food packaging, helping millions of Australians divert more kitchen waste.

“Data and qualitative feedback have consistently shown throughout the past 20 years that certified compostable

caddy liners increase the capture rate for kitchen organics,” Rowan says.

“They remove the yuk factor barrier at household level and facilitate effective engagement with the FOGO service.

“Where certified compostable liners are supplied, councils enjoy a higher capture rate of organics to FOGO, by up to 30 per cent, than those that don’t supply, or are unable to accept, certified liners.”

He says verification of the liners via the AS4736 and AS5810 programs means that every part of the value chain can be confident that the claims of compostability have been verified as meeting the requirements of AS4736 and AS5810.

The ‘seedling’ logo is a quick and easy way of identifying certified compostable products. That means consumers know which liners to buy (or not), as do councils.

“Importantly, organics recyclers, and anyone wanting to safely and hygienically manage food waste in a home compost system, can be confident that the certified liners will break down completely into water, carbon dioxide and biomass,” Rowan says. “Verification also signals that no added Per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are present. This in turn helps to support the organics recycling industry to continue to produce high quality materials, which we know is important in maintaining the sustainability of compost end markets.”

The AS5810 ‘home compostable’ verification scheme works in a similar way, and the logo is often found on items such as certified compostable food packaging, coffee cups, and cling film, signalling the item’s suitability for home composting.

Rowan says AS4736 and AS5810 are the most stringent in the world, with an earthworm ‘ecotoxicity test’ that is not necessarily required in other jurisdictions today but is coming.

In 2023, a third verification program was added by the ABA, for Certified Soil Biodegradable Mulch Film. This program, Rowan says, can change the game on how problematic plastics are managed on farms across the country.

Every year in Australia, the agriculture and horticulture sectors use about 200,000 kilometres of single-use plastic mulch film – enough to reach around the Earth five times. At the end of each growing season, it’s gathered up and disposed of – bringing a huge labour cost with it.

More than 86 per cent isn’t recycled, leaving significant amounts of film to be disposed of in other ways such as burning or landfill. If left in the soil, conventional mulch films will break down into harmful microplastics.

So, how can these issues be overcome?

Rowan says bioplastic mulch film certified to ISO 23517 helps avoid or eliminate many of these problems.

This certified mulch film is designed to biodegrade in-situ, and the certification means that farmers can be confident that the film will fully biodegrade without harmful effects, or any microplastics being deposited in the soil.

“The savings in labour and proper disposal costs are significant, and simplifying on-farm waste management is always going to be popular with farmers,” he says.

“The need to recover, store, transport, and dispose of a significant amount of pre-farm gate waste is circumvented, with no harmful effects on the soil.

Additionally, the cost of inappropriate disposal of conventional plastic film which is rarely properly accounted for in terms of environmental cost, such as burning or dumping down mine shafts, is avoided.”

For more information, visit: www.bioplastics.org.au www.wastemanagementreview.com.au / WMR / 21

FEATURED TOPIC � ORGANICS

Organic opportunities

In-vessel composting helps meet state organics recycling targets.

repurpose, and recycling of materials such as Food Organics, Green Organics (FOGO) waste.

capable of processing FOGO into highgrade compost.

MECBIO is a full-service provider for the recovery of organic, construction and demolition and plastics waste. Its technologies cover a range of recycling solutions including aerobic biodrying, anaerobic digestion or biogas production, air treatment and odour control systems, plastics recycling plants, mechanical pre-treatment and post-treatment, waste sorting plants, and more.

MECBIO partners with global suppliers to assist Australia’s transition to a circular economy. Waste Treatment Technology (WTT) is its technology partner for building sustainable and state-of-the-art organic waste treatment facilities such as in-vessel composting.

Based out of the Netherlands, WTT has designed and built more than 1509 organics waste processing facilities across the world.

PARTNERS OF CHANGE Resource recovery leader Repurpose It already plays a role in delivering on the state’s waste targets, with the company’s Epping base declared a site of strategic importance by the government.

In 2021, Repurpose It set out to revolutionise the FOGO recycling industry. The centrepiece is a 3000-square metre organics facility.

The company commissioned MECBIO to design and build an invessel organic waste composting facility,

THE SOLUTION Dean Dowie, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of MECBIO, says the company was happy to assist in building an in-vessel composting (IVC) plant for Repurpose It. The brief was for a facility that met volumetric and qualitative requirements and included aeration systems within tunnels and complete leachate management and odour control systems “IVC ensures that composting takes place in an enclosed environment, with accurate temperature control and

Images: MECBIO

MECBIO was commissioned to design and build an in-vessel organic waste composting facility at Repurpose It.

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ood and organics waste in landfill are significant greenhouse gas emitters.

Recognising the importance of the growing organics recycling sector, in 2021 the Federal Government launched a $171 million fund to take 3.4 million tonnes of food and organics waste out of landfill each year and return it to the soil.

Across Australia, Victoria has the highest level of food waste, with 2.4 million tonnes of waste each year, according to Sustainability Victoria.

The State Government’s waste policy aims to divert 80 per cent of waste from landfill by 2030 and includes initiatives that seek to increase the reuse,

www.wastemanagementreview.com.au / WMR / 23

FEATURED TOPIC � ORGANICS

Organic waste is loaded into a bay for processing at Repurpose It.

The IVC plant includes aeration systems within tunnels and complete leachate management and odour control systems.

monitoring,” Dean says. “Odour control, legislative licensing requirements, footprint (size of the plant), throughput and product quality are considered when determining if in-vessel composting is suitable.”

The composting process takes place in completely closed (concrete) vessels, so-called tunnels. Food organics is mixed with green organics, shredded, and composted in the tunnel for an intensive phase with temperatures of more than 55 degrees Celsius killing any harmful microbes.

After a further maturation period consisting of constant mixing and checks to ensure quality, the final compost is ready to be used as soil conditioner on farms, parks, and gardens.

The major advantages of composting in tunnels are the speed of the process as well as the ability to guarantee hygienisation and therefore the quality of the product while controlling odour.

The tunnels are individually controlled with forced aeration to process organic waste into compost. Each composting tunnel has its own aeration system, water and heating modules and is accompanied with the required instrumentation.

Process and odour control is optimal, resulting in homogenic pasteurisation and degradation of organics. The whole configuration is included into a skid for faster installation, easier transport to site and simplified commissioning.

The complete tunnel system is remotely actuated and controlled by a SCADA visualisation system. This allows site operators to set process parameters to be able to adapt to different waste streams and seasonal fluctuations.

Dean is hopeful that more projects such as this will be prioritised to meet recycling targets and objectives of processing source segregated wastes from communities across Australia.

T r m

It f c c

For more information, visit: www.mecbio.com.au

24 � WMR � May 2024

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FEATURED TOPIC � BATTERY RECYCLING

A proposed restructure of B-cycle would enable an increased levy on high-risk products such as button and lithium batteries.

Image: Nor Gal / shutterstock.com

Watt’s next?

Australia’s battery recycling scheme is under review to help combat market pressures for the industry.

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ibby Chaplin wants to see Australia’s Battery Stewardship Scheme continue to evolve and proactively work with industry partners to address the changing risk profile of batteries.

The Battery Stewardship Council (BSC) Chief Executive Officer announced a review of the B-cycle scheme in the face of the current downturn in the economy.

She’s confident the review will result in improvements to the scheme to better enable B-cycle and its partners to adapt and address evolving market conditions.

“The industry and battery chemistries are changing all the time. It’s important the scheme responds to these market

pressures and adapts accordingly,” Libby says.

“We’re taking a proactive stand to deliver our objectives and provide a platform for healthy and sustainable growth within the battery recycling industry.”

The national voluntary scheme was designed to encourage recycling and better waste management of endof-life batteries.

Launched in 2022, B-cycle has resulted in the establishment of more than 5000 community dropoff points, the recycling of 4.5 million kilograms of batteries, and the injection of more than $22 million into the domestic battery recycling industry.

Libby Chaplin, Battery Stewardship Council Chief Executive Officer.

Image: Battery Stewardship Council

The scheme’s reauthorisation by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) was scheduled for September 2025, but has been brought forward by the BSC Board in recognition of economic pressures.

A general downturn in the economy has impacted battery sales and resulted www.wastemanagementreview.com.au / WMR / 27

FEATURED TOPIC � BATTERY RECYCLING

The Battery Stewardship Council is seeking to enhance safety infrastructure for battery recycling.

Image: Sahan Nuhoglu / shutterstock.com

in a reduction of revenue from the levy imposed on imports. There are increases in fuel and labour costs for the collectors, and reductions in commodity prices for B-cycle accredited recyclers through a rebate for recycled batteries.

Libby says that since the scheme was designed in 2019, Consumer Price Index (CPI) has increased by 16.8 per cent while commodity prices have reduced significantly.

Having established a strong foundation of the scheme, the BSC recognises a more nuanced approach is necessary, and is exploring the need for a modulated rebate to address the varying costs associated with working with different chemistries.

BSC has conducted economic modelling to assess the cost benefit of a 28 � WMR � May 2024

modulated levy, based on the risks. The proposed restructure would enable an increased levy on high-risk products such as lithium and button batteries.

Preliminary consultation with B-cycle participants has been conducted. Next steps are for the BSC Board to review the proposed plan, before turning to a more comprehensive consultation in May. BSC intends to complete the review and prepare a submission to the ACCC for reauthorisation before the end of 2024.

An essential feature of the scheme review is a parallel process to establish an efficient but effective stewardship regulation that is focused on preventing freeriding, with conversations underway with government. BSC is of the view that free riders are actively engaging in anti-competitive behaviour by not

participating and failing to ensure the safe end-of-life management of their products.

“With the current market we have a very high proportion of importers in the scheme but there are some recalcitrant, steadfast organisations not participating,” Libby says. “They are gaining a competitive advantage over organisations that take responsibility for their products.”

The review aims to increase safety and diversion of higher risk categories such as lithium batteries and button batteries. BSC is also seeking to enhance safety infrastructure and ensure consumers understand the importance of buying good quality batteries, and their safe use, storage and recycling.

A strong focus of the scheme is safety at all stages. This starts with B-cycle working with drop-off points to establish their own risk assessments and safety plans, and more than 1000 frontline staff receiving B-cycle drop-off point safety training.

The collection containers provided for retail drop-off points have been installed with fire detection monitoring that alerts the collector and the store in the unlikely event of a fire-related incident. These containers and their kiosks have been imported from Europe where they were designed for safe battery collection by Bebat, one of the most successful schemes in the world. BSC’s industry partners are also investing in new and improved equipment and safety infrastructure to address this evolving issue.

Almost one fire a day is reported in the general waste and recycling sector.

There are also safety risks associated with button batteries, which when ingested or inserted by young children and other vulnerable groups, can cause serious injury or fatality.

Currently, 55 per cent of Australians are incorrectly disposing of end-of-life batteries. While the B-cycle scheme has reduced this number from 63 per cent, Libby says there is more work to do.

“All Australians need to be aware to never dispose of batteries in kerbside bins,” she says.

That starts with purchasing batteries from brands participating in the scheme, through to protecting used battery terminals with tape and taking them to a dedicated battery recycling drop-off point at end-of-life, as reflected in the two nationwide campaigns released by B-cycle in 2023.

The ‘Never Bin Your Batteries’ campaign looked at the importance of

not putting used batteries in general waste and recycling bins, while ‘This Tape Saves Lives’ encouraged Australians to tape the terminals of used batteries before taking them to a B-cycle dropoff point.

Libby says shifting the dial will require adequate resources to expand communication and education initiatives to give consumers the knowledge and skills they need to mitigate risk at all stages of the battery life cycle.

“Batteries are different to other waste products; they are a dangerous good,” Libby says. “We need strategies and consistency across the entire chain to ensure we are minimising the volume of batteries being disposed of incorrectly.

“Industry and governments are aligned on the need to reduce the risk.”

For more information, visit: www.bcycle.com.au

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WASTE MANAGEMENT IN ACTION � CONSTRUCTION & DEMOLITION WASTE

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Solid foundations

An iconic project in South Australia highlights the potential to lift Australia’s construction, demolition, commercial and industrial waste recovery rates.

$400 million redevelopment of South Australia’s Market Square is one of the most significant projects currently being undertaken in the state. Creating a new social and commercial hub for the city, the project will transform Adelaide’s skyline.

It’s also shifting the dial for Australia’s resource recovery and landfill diversion targets.

Bringing together resource recovery giant ResourceCo, and leading demolition company Delta Group, the redevelopment is an example of how circularity for construction and

demolition waste can be integrated into large-scale projects.

Delta Group, which is responsible for the project’s demolition works, selected ResourceCo as its resource recovery partner to recycle a large proportion of material from the site. Since demolition began in June 2023, Delta has overseen the breakdown and movement of more than 600 loads of concrete from the CBD site to ResourceCo’s recycling facility in Wingfield. ResourceCo has recycled the concrete into new products for the civil construction market and infrastructure projects across Adelaide.

“When it comes to the circular economy, there’s a lot we can achieve when we’re engaging with each other and not just working alone,” says Mitchell Bacon, ResourceCo Environmental Development Manager.

“This project is an important case study on how the industry can move forward.

“Awareness of the demolition material being recycled, and the real benefits of it being reused in the same or another project, will ultimately drive more sustainable outcomes for infrastructure projects.”

Since demolition at Market Square began in June 2023, more than 600 loads of concrete have been recycled into construction products being used across Adelaide. Images: ResourceCo

www.wastemanagementreview.com.au / WMR / 31

WASTE MANAGEMENT IN ACTION � CONSTRUCTION & DEMOLITION WASTE

City of Adelaide Lord Mayor Jane Lomax-Smith praised the resource recovery of the Market Square project during a tour of the site with Brad Lemmon, ResourceCo’s Chief Executive Officer of Recycling and Waste.

The Adelaide Central Market is an iconic site, and South Australia often proclaims to have a progressive approach to resource recovery – it was the first jurisdiction to introduce the Container Deposit Scheme in 1977, the first plastic shopping bag ban in 2009 and the first ban on single-use plastics in 2020.

Merging the central market and the state’s resource recovery credentials made perfect sense to the Adelaide City Council. During a visit to the site, Lord Mayor Jane Lomax-Smith acknowledged the work in recycling concrete from the project as an environmental win.

“When you’re dealing with an organisation that wants to do the best by the environment, you’re pretty lucky if you’re in South Australia because we’re really ahead of the pack when it comes to recycling waste, and reusing demolition material,” Jane says.

32 � WMR � May 2024

“ResourceCo has recycled 12,500 tonnes of concrete from this project.

That’s 12,500 tonnes that doesn’t go to landfill, doesn’t fill a hole in the ground, and we don’t lose that embedded energy.

“This recycling activity has been a win-win for everybody involved, but particularly the environment. It means there has been less waste going to landfill and less quarrying into the future.”

Although in some instances ResourceCo and Delta do compete (both companies have construction and demolition waste crushing operations in Victoria), it’s not the first time they have collaborated.

Elliot Nuberg, Delta Group’s South Australia State Manager, estimates more than 50,000 tonnes of concrete and mixed building waste have been diverted from landfill because of their collaboration.

“ResourceCo’s approach to resource recovery, including a network of sites, gives us confidence that the material we’re handling can be processed with minimal operational disruptions,” Elliot says. “We invest significant energy into operating with strict operational controls with an emphasis on safe and efficient demolition processes. Doing so gives us the ability to very specifically separate waste streams.”

Both Elliot and Brad Lemmon, ResourceCo’s Chief Executive Officer of Recycling and Waste, see these types of partnerships as a means to take resource recovery to the next level and push up the quality of recycled materials so they are incorporated into a build.

“ResourceCo’s bit in the process is to fine-tune the material to produce increasingly high-quality materials. But it all starts at the demolition site. If you don’t get it right at the demolition end, and the two parties aren’t working close together, it’s much more complicated and complex to succeed,” Brad says.

“Recyclers can, and should, continuously strive to produce the highest quality product as possible.

When this happens the whole recycling system grows, becomes more effective and there’s far greater market confidence in the high-end quality material being produced.”

Despite recycled materials often coming under more scrutiny and testing than many virgin materials, there remains a reluctance from some sectors to use these products. Brad identifies the reason as mostly a historic resistance and a suspicion that’s built in around recycled material.

“Recyclers have significantly evolved and, in many cases, matured into being a producer of quality materials. That being said, not all perceptions about the quality of the products have come along on the same journey,” he says.

“It’s incumbent on the broader resource recovery industry to continue

to evolve, keep improving the quality of our products and, importantly, continue to demonstrate credentials of our products.”

ResourceCo is working with end-users to develop products to specification. It’s also producing environmental data to verify the materials and processes used. Mitch hopes that working to meet industry demands will make recycled products more competitive and attractive to procurement staff.

“The opportunity sits with decision makers and local government to buy back recycled content and we need to make the benefits clear and as easy for them as possible,” he says.

“The more decision-makers understand the true benefit of recycled content, and they can sell it, the better it is for all of us.”

For more information, visit: www.resourceco.com.au

Build trust and recognition of your products being certified compostable by joining the ABA verification programmes for AS 4736-2006, AS 5810-2010 and ISO 23517

Verification by the ABA: ✓ Confirms that claims of conformance to standards are valid ✓ Provides an easy way to check conformance via the website ✓ Gives assurance items will compost or soil biodegrade as claimed AS 4736-2006 certified items: ✓ are suitable for composting and other microbial treatment ✓ meet the requirements of AS 4736 ✓ contain no added PFAS ✓ have passed the earthworm ‘ecotoxicity’ test

AS 5810-2010 certified items: ✓ are suitable for home composting ✓ meet the requirements of AS 5810 ✓ contain no added PFAS ✓ have passed the earthworm ‘ecotoxicity’ test

ISO 23517 certified items: ✓ meet the requirements of the international soil biodegradable standard ✓ have passed the earthworm ‘ecotoxicity’ test ✓ biodegrade in-situ, no removal required Elliot Nuberg, Delta Group’s South Australia State Manager, says partnerships like the one with ResourceCo help meet recycling and reuse targets on major projects.

✓ biodegrade to CO2, water, and biomass with no detrimental effects

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WASTE MANAGEMENT IN ACTION � PLASTIC PIPES

Providing plastic pipe power

The Construction Plastics Recycling Scheme will launch into phase three, expanding across 40 locations.

I

t’s hard to comprehend the vast network of plastic pipelines installed and in operation in Australia and worldwide.

Most are buried and have been in service for more than 100 years.

Plastic pipes have many advantages over alternative materials and with the increased global focus on reducing the environmental footprint and transitioning from a linear to a circular economy, they are increasingly becoming the preferred material to replace and upgrade pipes.

Aligning with the fundamental principles of a circular economy, plastic pipes are designed to minimise waste and pollution, last a long time, and can be repaired and recycled.

PIPA’s Executive General Manager, Cindy Bray, says one of the important features of plastic pipes is their design life.

They are intended and designed to last a long time.

Images: PIPA

The importance of pipes to Australia’s way of life is often underestimated. The Plastic Industries Pipe Association (PIPA) is working to change that.

“In typical environmental conditions, plastic materials are well known to last for a very long time,” Cindy says. “They often remain functional for more than 100 years without requiring excess maintenance or repair when used and installed correctly in normal operation.”

As a non-profit association, PIPA promotes the appropriate and contemporary use of plastic pipes and fittings throughout Australia. This achieves its four key pillars: advocacy, education, technical, and sustainability.

One key focus area for PIPA is educating people on the differences between plastic pipes, fittings, and other plastics, such as single-use plastics.

“Not all plastics are the same, and too often, plastic pipe systems are mistakenly put in the same category as single-use plastics,” Cindy says. “Pipes are longlife products, not single-use, made from

materials engineered to be robust, reliable, and recyclable with a service life over 100 years.”

To help further educate on the positive use of plastics, PIPA has recently launched a digital campaign, That’s using plastic for good.

It’s an awareness campaign targeted at those outside the industry – differentiating plastic pipes from single-use plastic and highlighting their indispensable role in everyday lives.

Most plastic pipes have exceptional service lives and are still in their first life cycle. This makes comparisons between annual plastic consumption and total annual plastic recovery misleading for plastic pipes and fittings.

PIPA and its members are acutely aware of the problem society faces with plastic pollution, and for more than two decades, the industry has aimed to recycle the maximum amount of usable plastic pipe and other suitable materials into new plastic pipes.

“We are committed to maximising the use of post-consumer and pre-consumer recycled content in products while ensuring that products remain fit-forpurpose,” Cindy says.

“Pipes manufactured with recycled content must conform to the relevant Australian Product Standards, just like those manufactured from virgin materials. This is particularly important in infrastructure applications where reliable performance and long service life are primary considerations. Plastic pipes www.wastemanagementreview.com.au / WMR / 35

WASTE MANAGEMENT IN ACTION � PLASTIC PIPES

Education is important. Through the Construction Plastics Recycling Scheme (PIPA) and MPAQ visit TAFEs and training colleges to speak about recycling PVC pipes and fittings.

must be fit-for-purpose, regardless of their composition.”

USE OF RECYCLED MATERIAL PIPA published a discussion paper on using recycled materials in plastic pipes to help educate people. This paper outlines where recycled materials can be incorporated in plastic pipes and their sustainability advantages, addresses misleading comparisons of virgin and recycled material, and explains how they are long-lasting products.

Further, PIPA has developed Industry Technical Guidelines POP208, Specification and Testing Guidelines for recycled materials suitable for non-pressure plastic pipe applications. This document defines specification and testing requirements for recycled materials and products that incorporate recycled material, outlining the characteristics and performance criteria required when using recycled materials. These documents are available on the PIPA website.

“This guidance is extremely important to ensure recovered materials are reprocessed correctly,” Cindy says. “It’s a valuable resource that we want to use.

It’s also important for the end product to have a long service life.”

IMPROVING SUSTAINABILITY Although there is a low volume to recover due to the long life and integrity of plastic pipe systems, PIPA and its members are 36 � WMR � May 2024

taking practical, meaningful steps to minimise the impact of plastic pollution.

It is working with the broader industry to divert suitable plastic material from landfills into long-life, recycled pipe products that meet the relevant Australian and International Standards.

There is already capacity to increase the use of recycled material across a range of non-pressure pipe products when suitable waste stream volumes become available – PIPA already has the solution.

An example of this is within PVC non-pressure pipes. Multi-layer extrusion technology (or sandwich construction) allows recycled material to be used in the core layer of the pipe (the middle) between the inner and outer layers of virgin material. Recycled material can

also be incorporated into non-pressure polyethylene pipes, such as corrugated drainage pipes.

The plastic pipe industry is proud of its environmental sustainability initiatives, which include best-practice material sourcing and manufacturing (with processes designed to reuse scrap materials to make other pipes), end-of-life product stewardship, and recycling programs.

With the various applications in which plastic pipes are used, there are many approaches to collection, with some more challenging than others. PIPA has established a Plastic Pipes Recycling Program with various partners across Australia that provides information and locations for end users to deliver the pipes and fittings they no longer need.

PILOT PROGRAMS PIPA has engaged with other industry stakeholders within the plumbing sector, including the Master Plumbers Association of Queensland (MPAQ), to establish education and pilot programs to increase awareness of the sustainability of plastic pipes and develop behaviours for appropriate disposal of off-cuts.

“Programs such as the Construction Plastics Recycling Scheme in Queensland not only educate but also provide the industry with insights into behaviours and

PIPA has produced an industry guideline for recycled materials suitable for non-pressure plastic pipes.

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a greater understanding of the volume of available plastic pipe off-cuts and fittings from buildings, construction sites, and education training facilities,” Cindy says.

“This data will enable us to paint a true picture of the available material, expand these programs, and support better consumer investment and policy decisions.”

The Construction Plastics Recycling Scheme is about to launch phase three, expanding to 40 locations, including regional areas. This initiative is supported by the Queensland Government’s Recycling and Jobs Fund.

Cindy says the success of these programs can only be achieved through the collaboration of key stakeholders from industry associations, manufacturers, and merchants to end users.

These programs provide PIPA and MPAQ with the opportunity to visit

TAFEs and training colleges, speak with apprentices at the beginning of their careers about the sustainability and recyclability of plastic pipes, and encourage them to continue the conversation about appropriate disposal when they are out of the classroom and back on site.

PIPA has also teamed up with Cool.

Org, a company that brings real-world learning into classrooms. It provides free lesson plans mapped to relevant year levels and the Australian curriculum, which is centred around environmental, social, economic, and sustainability topics.

“I’m really proud of this partnership,” says Cindy.

“We’ve developed 10 lessons designed for Grade 5-6 students in the subject of design and technology, focusing on circularity and the good use of plastic.

These lessons introduce design thinking,

how pipes are used in our everyday lives, the suitability of pipe materials, material efficiency, and recycling. The project provides another opportunity for us to educate on the positive use of plastics.”

Through the whole lifecycle – manufacturing, use and disposal – the plastic pipe industry has maintained a commitment to improving sustainable practices and outcomes in a way that benefits all Australians.

“Australia’s vast landscapes require largescale, special-purpose systems to move water, wastewater, and gas and protect underground power and communication cable networks,” Cindy says. “Plastic pipeline systems are robust and longlasting, providing reliability now and into the future.”

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WASTE MANAGEMENT IN ACTION � CONSULTANTS

Resource Hub is helping local government areas comply with waste levy and waste and resource recovery (WARR) regulations. Images: Resource Hub

Waste levy windfall W

Resource Hub is helping local government areas across Australia uncover hidden opportunities to recoup waste levies.

aste levy exemptions don’t have to be complex. In fact, they can be quite simple; you just need to follow a process.

Establishing that process is where Lacey Webb, Resource Hub Founder and Chief Executive Officer, reigns supreme. Described as an extra set of hands behind the industry, Resource Hub thrives on crunching numbers and putting money back into council coffers.

Resource Hub supports waste operators and local government areas across Australia in becoming more financially and operationally effective and complying with waste levy and waste and resource recovery (WARR) regulations.

38 � WMR � May 2024

Lacey Webb, Resource Hub Founder and Chief Executive Officer.

As the only dedicated waste levy consultancy in Australia, it is currently working with New South Wales councils to raise awareness of the importance of Operational Purpose Deductions (OPDs) – and with positive

results. The team recently clawed back more than $1 million for the Hawkesbury City Council.

“As a former chief financial officer, I am always focused on ensuring profitability through the implementation of good processes,” Lacey says.

“Often process improvement is something people undervalue or under appreciate. But there are huge opportunities to save councils as much money as possible by being as efficient as possible. If my team can help save some coin, I’m up for it.”

Non waste materials are one such opportunity. The New South Wales waste levy doesn’t recognise nonwaste. Anything that comes in the

gate at a landfill or disposal facility – virgin excavated materials, recycled aggregates, landfill cell liners and piping for leachate or gas flare systems – is considered waste. Operators pay a levy on that waste if it remains on site.

But an OPD is the exemption or clawback that operators can apply for if material they paid a levy on was used for an operational purpose.

“It can add up to huge numbers,” Lacey says. “When building a landfill cell, the tonnes of material that facilities bring in are high and can amount to a significant financial burden if not well managed.”

OPDs and anything related to the waste levy, behind-the-scenes administration, and regulatory compliance, often fly under the radar in terms of facility focus. Often, this is because councils struggle to resource or don’t have internal expertise.

In the case of Hawkesbury, council has a waste co-ordinator who is skilled at financial modelling and regulatory oversight. However, the two-year statutory limit to claim back OPD entitlements was close, and the team needed an extra set of hands.

“Hawkesbury council had already paid levy on material that wasn’t technically a waste,” Lacey says. “It was used to build landfill cells and infrastructure. We’ve been able to help them claim back more than $1 million that can now go back into helping build the next project. It goes back into council, and ratepayer, opportunities.”

Lacey says regulatory mechanisms that seem complex can often be simplified with templates and processes.

At Hawkesbury, Resource Hub set up a repeatable tool for future claims.

Any time the council has work on site and needs to claw back that levy, the team can use their new templates to input raw data and pull out a summary. The template also helps build supporting evidence for the

Environment Protection Authority (EPA) when a claim is submitted and includes multiple reconciling factors to give the EPA confidence to approve faster.

While there is no statutory timeframe requirement for when an OPD application is assessed, the Hawkesbury submission was approved in under three months and every item claimed was approved.

“The data, information gathering and crunching! It’s been a pleasure to work with Resource Hub and a great learning opportunity,” says Justin Murphy, Council’s Co-ordinator Waste Projects.

“OPD’s are not just about finances,” Lacey says. “The process has helped Hawkesbury Council develop its relationship with the EPA, which will have broader benefits.”

Resource Hub is building a transparent and working relationship with the regulatory authority in every state because it helps deliver great outcomes. Having a specialist third party assist councils also gives

Landfill cell construction.

Operational Purpose Deductions can be claimed for landfill cell construction.

OPDs can relate to whole of site projects including cells and ponds.

www.wastemanagementreview.com.au / WMR / 39

WASTE MANAGEMENT IN ACTION � CONSULTANTS

Materials used by local government and waste operators to build landfill cells and infrastructure are not technically a waste.

Supporting documents for OPDs can include plans or aerial views.

authorities confidence that the data submitted for OPD applications is accurate and meets standards.

“When a regulator sees a solution that works or makes their assessment easier, they’re not hesitant,” Lacey says.

Resource Hub is currently supporting seven local governments within New South Wales to draft their OPD claims.

In Hawkesbury’s case, their application dealt with ‘real numbers’ because the work had been completed. While more challenging, OPD applications can also be pre-emptive.

The benefit of a pre-construction claim is that facilities don’t require the cash flow for project levies up front. However, it does require solid predictions about the type and volume of materials to be used.

Kempsey Regional Council is currently working through the process of claiming historical OPDs but is also transitioning to a pre-construction approach in future.

Jason Magill, Kempsey Shire Council Waste Manager, says it’s good to know the council is now on the right track.

Lacey says the council was underresourced and was going through an internal restructure. It was working with the EPA when it identified projects for which OPDs hadn’t been claimed.

It’s a similar case at Byron Shire Council. The council realised a waste levy liability existed when it discovered construction materials used on site were considered a “levyable stockpile” in volumetric survey.

“OPD claims can fly under the radar if councils don’t have the human resources or regular monthly routines to work on levy,” Lacey says.

“Resource Hub establishes a process to ensure weighbridge or volume data is appropriately structured. It’s often as simple as capturing transactions with real-time data of material coming in. Facilities also may not know to keep product sampling records to demonstrate that materials meet specifications or may not have captured internal movements of material used.”

For Hawkesbury, Byron and Kempsey councils, the solution was providing a list of the type of projects and materials eligible for OPD, and the evidence needed for an application – the data, the plans, and even how best to provide photographs.

Lacey describes it as empowering councils on what to look for.

Four years after its founding, Resource Hub now supports all significant commercial landfill operators in Queensland and 80 per cent of the state’s waste levy local government market with their levy obligations.

In 2023, the team expanded services to include New South Wales and already has clients in Western Australia, South Australia, and Victoria. In 2024, the team has its sights on simplifying levy processes for Tasmania.

For more information, email: hello@resourcehub.com.au Pre-construction claims require solid predictions about the type and volume of materials to be used.

40 � WMR � May 2024

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WASTE MANAGEMENT IN ACTION � MACHINERY

Game-changing

In-house manufacturing helps Liebherr specialist machines shift with industry.

The L 566 XPower Wheel Loader offers faster loading cycles and high tipping loads to increase material handling capacity. Images: Liebherr

T

he recycling and resource recovery industry is undergoing rapid transformation. Once general disposal companies are now specialised recycling operations. This evolution has reverberated across the sector – right down to the machinery it uses.

Global equipment manufacturer Liebherr has developed significant technological enhancements in its equipment, using many years of experience and world recognised sustainability and environmental focus.

In Australia, that means only the latest technology that can withstand the harsh Australian conditions.

42 � WMR � May 2024

Noel Tosolini, Liebherr Australia’s National Sales Manager, Earthmoving and Material Handling Division, says Liebherr’s advantage is its inhouse manufacturing.

“All key components: diesel engine, hydraulic and electronic components, slew ring, swivel drive and steel structure are developed, tested and produced

by Liebherr providing a high level of quality assurance and long service life,” Noel says. “Even during development, the requirements of future applications are taken into account to ensure that Liebherr specialist machines are prepared for every feasible working situation.”

Liebherr-Australia was first incorporated as a company in 1981 and its head office complex in Adelaide was built soon after. Since then, the company has expanded with offices throughout the country.

Today Liebherr-Australia sells and supports a wide range of Liebherr products in Australia and New Zealand including mobile and crawler cranes, offshore cranes, tower cranes, deep foundation machines, earthmoving and mining equipment.

In addition to the sales and services offered, the Adelaide, Perth, Mackay, and Mt Thorley sites are home to bucket manufacturing and bucket repair facilities.

The company also operates a national distribution centre and a remanufacturing centre. Both are established to provide industry best practise standards of remanufactured components and parts for customer fleets.

When it comes to material handling equipment, Liebherr offers a variety of machines and technologies that are custom engineered for these applications.

From material handlers, wheel loaders to dozers, crawler loaders and more, Liebherr provides customers capable and efficient machines.

MATERIAL HANDLERS Noel says Liebherr material handlers are powerful, efficient and adept at a range of tasks in the waste sector: feeding a conditioner or crusher, loading and unloading, sorting materials and piling up and moving materials of all kinds.

He says the optimal interaction between the material handler’s

hydraulics and electronics provides fast and powerful movements. At the same time, it’s also up to the task of sensitive and precise work in challenging sorting environments.

“Liebherr achieves this difficult balancing act with its own engine technology manufactured in-house and optimised to meet the requirements of controlled hydraulics,” Noel says.

“State-of-the-art engine technology, with intelligent machine controls, optimise the interplay of the drive components in terms of efficiency.

Add in the Liebherr-Power Efficiency (LPE), that enables machine operation with the lowest possible fuel use, and you’ve got greater efficiency with maximum performance.”

The material handlers are sturdy and durable, even in challenging waste management operations, including landfills. Air filters with dust extraction, reversible fans or coarse matrix radiators, have been developed for deployment in areas heavily contaminated with dust, providing reliability under demanding conditions.

The cab has been designed to optimise operator comfort and efficiency. Large glass panels, a choice of cab elevations and rear and side monitoring ensure the operator always has a clear view around the machine. In addition, the Comfort driver’s seat, intuitive touchscreen colour display and central lubrication systems for the machine and its attachment allow the operator to concentrate on the handling capacity.

The design also optimises servicing times, thus minimising maintenance costs. Maintenance points are easily accessible via large, wide-opening service doors. Being close to one another means that service work can be completed quickly and efficiently.

WHEEL LOADERS The versatility and range of Liebherr wheel loaders has made them a preferred

choice across waste management and recycling operations.

In addition to various models, the L 550-L 566 XPower wheel loaders and the L 580 XPower now offer industrial and z-bar kinematics.

“This means the right machine is always available for any application, including loading and compacting bulk goods in high walking floor containers,” Noel says. “It increases the wheel loader’s versatility and increases productivity.”

He says the innovative drive concepts of Liebherr wheel loaders reduce fuel consumption by up to 30 per cent.

means more safety and productivity.

The Liebherr control lever allows precise and sensitive control of the machine for accurate and safe handling. The generous glass surfaces of the cab offer all-round visibility.

All service points for daily maintenance can be reached safely and conveniently.

DOZERS Noel says Liebherr dozers open new horizons. Ideal for pushing, shredding, mixing, stockpiling, and distributing waste types on a landfill, full power

The overall stability of the LH 30 M ensures a fast, powerful performance for lifting and loading work.

In addition, minimal tyre and brake wear, at maximum handling capacity, reduce operating costs and protect the environment.

“Liebherr wheel loaders satisfy Liebherr’s exacting standards in even the toughest conditions,” Noel says.

“They feature many components that are produced in-house and are therefore ideally tailored to work in synergy. This ensures machine reliability and availability.”

The modern, ergonomic cab provides operators with maximum comfort enabling them to concentrate on their work without fatigue, which again

is always on-call, even in varying weather conditions and different grades of material.

The hydrostatic drive delivers the optimum pushing speed and low fuel consumption, while the innovative cooling system enables the radiator to self-clean, lowering maintenance and fuel costs.

Operator Assistance Systems guarantee maximum grading quality and efficiency, and a range of optional equipment is available to protect and extend the life of the undercarriage and other components.

Noel says Liebherr dozers feature a range of protective guards for landfill www.wastemanagementreview.com.au / WMR / 43

WASTE MANAGEMENT IN ACTION � MACHINERY

Liebherr dozers offer a smooth ride and precision blade control.

Image: Liebherr

applications that prevent damage to the machine caused by oversized solid items. They also reduce dust and dirt contamination, both prolonging the service life of the machines and preventing unnecessary downtime.

A spacious and comfortable cab provides a full view of the working area and equipment while the single lever control system allows the machine to be controlled safely and precisely.

CRAWLER LOADERS Whether it’s household or natural waste – Noel says Liebherr crawler loaders have proven to be all-rounders in the construction phase, as well as in the operating and renovation phase.

They can be used for the installation and pre-compaction of waste, as well as application of surface layers, material handling and auxiliary work.

44 � WMR � May 2024

“Crawler loaders, with their high breaking forces, are indispensable for sorting out bulky waste fractions or excavating loamy or frozen soil,” Noel says. “Their unmatched traction on unstable ground benefits them when pushing garbage, working on embankments or recovering trucks that have got caught.”

Due to their versatility, minimal maintenance requirements and low fuel consumption, Liebherr crawler loaders are suitable as universal machines for smaller landfills or as an integral part of the vehicle fleet at larger landfills.

The bucket shape and volume, as well as the grid and cutting tool, can be adapted to the general conditions of quality of the waste and cover material at the landfill.

As an option, the machine can also be equipped with a rear ripper. The

demand-driven hydraulics and reduced engine speed in ECO mode further reduce fuel consumption.

The pressurised cab with air conditioning, sound insulation, airsuspended seat, hydraulic cab suspension and optional windshield protection offers good conditions for safe, relaxed and productive work.

The intuitive, sensitive single-lever control, and unobstructed view, allow the operator to concentrate on their work.

Long maintenance intervals and easily accessible service points are of importance for machines used in intensive continuous operation such as landfill sites, ensuring they are ready for use at all times.

For more information, visit: www.liebherr.com.au

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WASTE MANAGEMENT IN ACTION � TRANSPORT

R

A FORCE to reckon with Bucher Municipal demonstrates its new FORCE Series 3 front loader body on IVECO ACCO

efuse collection equipment supplier and manufacturer Bucher Municipal has teamed up with IVECO for a national roadshow to showcase its new FORCE Series 3 Front Loader compactor body.

Following a 12-month development process and prototype testing, the new body has entered production with demonstrations of the vehicle proving popular with both local governments as well as private waste contractors.

A key feature of the FORCE Series 3 body is ‘Bucher iQ’, a new control technology that integrates with the cab chassis’ CANBus system and provides increased diagnostics and system configuration benefits via a touchscreen interface.

It also introduces Bucher’s own hydraulics system, which the company designed and engineered specifically for its bodies. Additionally, the new Bucher hydraulics have advanced anti-tamper technology and offer direct control from the operator screen while also delivering increased savings in maintenance and parts.

Available in 28.5 cubic metre and 33.5 cubic metre body sizes, the FORCE Series 3 makes the most of these capacities with its proprietary twin cylinder ‘floating blade’ compaction system that provides higher compaction force, therefore allowing maximum payloads to be reached while minimising blade jams.

Also helping productivity is its ability to pack the load and pick up bins

46 � WMR � May 2024

simultaneously, and a 12-second lift cycle – this positions the FORCE Series 3 as a fast and productive front loader.

Marcus Hughes, Bucher Municipal’s Product and Marketing Manager, says the FORCE Series 3 delivers

features to operators over preceding FORCE models.

“The FORCE Series 3 represents the latest evolution of the FORCE Front Loader range. This new model includes features that were developed

The FORCE Series 3 represents the latest evolution of the FORCE Front Loader range. Images: Iveco

THO The ability to pack the load and pick-up bins simultaneously adds to the productivity of the FORCE Series 3.

following in-field operator feedback as well as changes made through Bucher Municipal’s own product development processes,” Marcus says.

“Key focus areas of the new bodies centre on bringing the product in line with the Bucher iQ CANBus control system that has been so successful on our refuse product range, as well as improving usability while reducing servicing and maintenance costs.”

Bucher Municipal has enjoyed a strong relationship with IVECO and previously INTERNATIONAL for more than 50 years. Marcus says it was a logical choice to trial the prototype FORCE Series 3 Front Loader on an ACCO 8x4 platform.

“Our customers are very familiar with the ACCO range, for many of them

IVECO makes up a good portion of their waste collection fleet,” he says.

“It’s a cab chassis that’s tried and tested, and one that our customers ask for, and for manufacturers such as Bucher, it’s an easy platform to work with.”

The FORCE Series 3 Front Loader roadshow involves a team from Bucher Municipal – including a driver trainer and product expert – visiting customer sites to undertake a detailed vehicle walkaround, followed by a physical demonstration.

Customers can then put the truck to work within their own fleets for an agreed period of time.

The roadshow began in October 2023, and the unit will be available for demonstration until late in 2024.

Marcus says that feedback from participants has been excellent.

“Customers who have experienced the FORCE/ACCO combination recognise the considerable advancements that we’ve made, and interest has been strong.”

For more information, visit: www.iveco.com.au

A 12-second lift cycle positions the FORCE Series 3 as the fastest front loader in its class.

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WASTE MANAGEMENT IN ACTION � MACHINE GUIDANCE

Prime position

From regional council landfills to large-scale, privately managed waste facilities, positioning technology is helping to extend the life of landfill cells and ensure high standards of sustainable waste management. challenges and opportunities, innovate solutions and partner with customers for the long term.

In the waste sector, Aptella supports about 40 sites throughout Australia and New Zealand with machine guidance solutions that are designed for landfill operations.

“Our customers are varied in the scale, location and scope of the waste management facilities they manage,” says Andrew Granger, Executive Business Manager at Aptella. “Our technology platform is scalable and flexible to benefit sites of all sizes, with local support across Australia and New Zealand to assist with technical deployment and ongoing maintenance.”

Aptella has offices in every state and territory of Australia, as well as Auckland in New Zealand, Jakarta Indonesia, and Singapore. It employs more than 350

Image: Aptella.

A

ptella is a technology provider servicing the waste sector, construction, mining, and other heavy industry with the latest in positioning and automation innovation from around the world. Newly rebranded from Position Partners, the new name and identity better reflects its service offering to customers.

“The Position Partners name and brand has served us well,” says Martin Nix, Chief Executive Officer. “Sentiment from our employees and customers was that the time was right for a fresh new identity to better represent the experiences people can expect from us as their vital technology provider.”

As emerging systems develop in automation, robotics, and augmented positioning for smart cities, the Aptella team will continue to work collaboratively to understand project

Carlson LandfillGrade gives operators live information on compaction, air space use and cut/fill design.

people with a range of skill sets to source, customise and support positioning and automation technology.

Carlson LandfillGrade is a unique solution that the business has deployed for customers for more than 10 years.

The system encompasses a GPS antenna

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City of Newcastle landfill is one of 40 sites throughout Australia and New Zealand with machine guidance solutions. Images: Aptella

48 � WMR � May 2024

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WASTE MANAGEMENT IN ACTION � MACHINE GUIDANCE

mounted to the roof of the compactor, sensors on the machine body and a full-colour touchscreen inside the cab to guide the operator.

Designed to help landfill managers maximise the use of landfill cells dynamically rather than retrospectively, LandfillGrade gives operators and managers live information on compaction, air space use and cut/fill to design.

“Without the use of technology such as the Carlson system, operators and managers are somewhat flying blind because they can only measure what has been done with as-built checks,” Andrew says.

Through continuous monitoring of compaction and airspace use, the technology helps to ensure that slopes are graded accurately, and air pockets are minimised. Building the design right

the first time with optimal compaction can extend the life of a landfill cell and improve leachate management, with less impact to the environment through reduced fuel usage and better air quality.

Improved safety is another key factor for deploying positioning technology.

The software can be programmed with avoidance zones, alerting operators via their in-cab display if they approach a no-go area or enter the working area of another machine.

For larger sites, Carlson can be installed on a range of machine types including dozers, graders and excavators, guiding everyone working to a design on site.

“Whether there’s a single landfill compactor or a fleet of machines, the Carlson system can be installed on any make and model to give a consistent user experience for all operators,” Andrew says.

“After many years of successful deployment on a range of sites, the Carlson solution is robust and reliable.

It’s an extremely stable platform that rarely needs any breakdown technical support.”

For the most part, technical assistance is required in the form of training and initial deployment.

“Our team is well-versed in change management and helping to train operators and managers to get the most out of their technology in the shortest timeframe,” Andrew says.

“We try to remove any barriers and can offer fully managed services whereby we provide the reports and manage the data so it’s more hands-off for the onsite team.”

For more information, visit: www.aptella.com

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WASTE MANAGEMENT IN ACTION � COMPACTORS

Upgraded new model entering market “W

The Australian waste management industry is about to be shaken up with the arrival of a monster compactor.

ith a mighty 58 tonnes in weight, the BOMAG BC 1173 RB-5 is one of the newest landfill compactors in our fleet,” says John Glossat. “Five of these beasts will be reaching Australian shores shortly.”

Tutt Bryant Equipment has distributed BOMAG in Australia since the two companies partnered in 1986. John Glossat, the Tutt Bryant National Business Development Manager, is enthusiastic about what BOMAG’s latest offering can offer Australian landfill operators.

The landfill compactor has many convincing design features that have been tried and tested over decades of practical use on landfill sites. With a philosophy based on quality, it is up to the challenge

The BOMAG BC 1173 RB-5 is an enormous landfill compactor that can support almost any waste management facility. Image: BOMAG

50 � WMR � May 2024

of working on modern landfill sites.

“When it comes down to it, the best compaction results are achieved when the material is evenly distributed,” says John.

“Compaction is a significant contributor to the lifetime of any landfill. Not only that, but every additional cubic metre filled is money in the bank for waste disposal sites.”

THE BOMAG BC 1173 RB�5 The BOMAG BC 1173 RB-5 refuse compactor offers power and efficiency. Its intelligent design produces cost-effective compaction with minimum maintenance work. The high-output diesel engine provides ample power for all conditions.

BOMAG emphasises sustainability.

In conjunction with the latest engine

technology, the cooling system enables the BC 1173 RB-5 to operate quietly and provide a good working environment for the operator and the surrounding area.

The unit uses polygon disc wheels fitted with premium teeth for crushing, kneading and effective compaction to depth. An oscillating articulation joint provides good load distribution to the compaction wheels, while scrapers and wire cutters guarantee clean wheels during operation. The offset wheels ensure gaps in the covered area are closed evenly on a second pass.

There is enough diesel power fitted with a Cummins X15 engine as Tier 3 or Stage V to provide power for all conditions, while lower fuel consumption means lower operating costs.

According to BOMAG, Eco Mode reduces fuel consumption by up to 30 per cent, and lower engine speeds minimise wear on drive components.

This can extend the machine’s and its parts’ life.

“We also offer an option to have the machine fitted with a Mercedes Benz MTU OM473LA Stage V Tier 4f if preferred,” John says.

SAFE, SMART, COMFORTABLE The compactors come equipped with a range of standard safety features, including a rear-view camera with colour display, a ROPS/FOPS cabin with all-around safety glass, and large electronically adjustable mirrors.

John also likes the spacious BC 1173 RB-5 cabin, which features air conditioning, heating, an adjustable seat

with air-cushioned suspension, and is well-sealed for safety and noise reduction.

“It’s more comfortable than the lounge suite at home,” he says. “The display is brilliant, easy to read, and the controller layout is great. Everything’s at your fingertips.”

The machine has innovative features, including telematics, cruise control, and BOMAG Autoblade and Blade Stepper. These allow for the precise adjustment of dozer blade height to meet landfill requirements. They also enable frequently used blade positions to be saved and retrieved anytime, streamlining operation.

“The basis for a landfill’s profitability is the optimum use of capacity, which you achieve through the best possible compaction of all waste materials,” John says. “BOMAG compactors get this right

because they’ve been specifically designed by people who understand the extreme conditions found on landfill sites.”

THE AUSTRALIAN EXPERIENCE Over the past few years, Tutt Bryant has mainly imported its compactors with premium teeth into Australia. The goal is to support crushing, compliance delivery, and longevity on wear. They have been a proven asset.

Tutt Bryant Equipment is a premium BOMAG national dealer in Australia that focuses on its customers’ needs. It features strong after-sales support and parts and services to keep its fleet rolling.

John says: “We are specialised, trained, and going the extra mile.”

For more information, visit: www.tuttbryant.com.au

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WASTECH ENGINEERING, FIRE ROVER FIRE PREVENTION SYSTEM Fires are one of the most prevalent risks in waste management facilities. Waste and recyclable materials can be highly flammable, without the additional risk factors now caused by lithium-ion batteries.

The Fire Rover Fire Prevention System is engineered with industry-leading technology to help keep sites safe. The system uses military-grade thermal detection and high-definition video to detect and extinguish the threat of fires before they start.

Advanced analytics pinpoint and identify hotspots before flare-ups. This information is assessed by sophisticated false alarm filtering analytics before human verification.

Upon verification, live-monitoring personnel engage the system, delivering significant volumes of water and environmentally friendly fire suppression solutions.

The automated system is suitable for a range of applications, from manufacturing and high-risk distribution centres to refineries and waste and recycling facilities. It can be deployed across all classes of fire such as agricultural, battery, metal, plastic, petroleum and waste.

The Fire Rover Prevention System offers protection and safety against the risk of fire so businesses can focus on operations.

The Fire Rover Fire Prevention System.

Image: Wastech Engineering

Contact – Wastech Engineering P 1800 465 465 E info@wastech.com.au W www.wastech.com.au

KOMATSU, WA500�8 WHEEL LOADER Powered by a new technology Komatsu engine, the 6.4

cubic metre capacity WA500-8 is designed for production and sales loading applications in quarry and aggregates

sectors, as well as other industries that need a loading tool that delivers power and performance.

Key components are designed and manufactured by

Komatsu to work together in an integrated package. The

WA500-8 comes standard with Komtrax remote monitoring and location system, backed by Komatsu’s Australia-wide service and support network.

Renowned for quality standards and reliability, Komatsu

meets the demand placed on machines by the waste management industry with a range of options and

modifications available. This provides the flexibility to

WA500-8 Wheel Loader is adaptable to specific waste handling applications. Image: Komatsu

adapt the Komatsu wheel loader range to the specific

requirements of different waste handling applications and jobsite conditions.

Full waste specification or individual components are

geared toward increased machine performance, availability, and efficiency.

Contact – Komatsu

P 1300 566 287 E info@komatsu.com.au W www.komatsu.com.au

www.wastemanagementreview.com.au / WMR / 53

AGRICULTURE FARMING EDUCATION WASTE MANAGEMENT RESOURCE MANAGEMENT CONSERVATION MANUFACTURING RESOURCES ENERGY HEALTH & SAFETY INFRASTRUCTURE ENGINEERING MINING CONSTRUCTION QUARRYING AGRICULTURE FARMING EDUCATION WASTE MANAGEMENT RESOURCE MANAGEMENT CONSERVATION MANUFACTURING RESOURCES ENERGY HEALTH & SAFETY INFRASTRUCTURE ENGINEERING MINING CONSTRUCTION QUARRYING AGRICULTURE FARMING EDUCATION WASTE MANAGEMENT RESOURCE MANAGEMENT CONSERVATION MANUFACTURING RESOURCES ENERGY HEALTH & SAFETY INFRASTRUCTURE ENGINEERING MINING CONSTRUCTION QUARRYING AGRICULTURE FARMING EDUCATION WASTE MANAGEMENT RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

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PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

KOMPTEC CEA, NEMUS TROMMEL SCREEN For organic waste processors, efficiency is paramount.

Enter the Komptech Nemus trommel screen, designed to streamline operations without compromising performance. This user-friendly machine makes organic waste screening a breeze, allowing operators to focus on creating high-quality compost and mulch.

The Nemus prioritises operator ease of use.

An intuitive control panel with clear visualisation simplifies the sorting process, minimising training time and maximising uptime. This is particularly beneficial for operations with seasonal staff or fluctuating workloads.

Furthermore, the Nemus boasts various features designed to enhance organic waste processing. A large, steep-walled hopper allows for continuous feeding, while an improved material feed system ensures a consistent flow of waste into the screening drum.

The high-performance discharge system precisely sorts screened materials, creating clean, high-quality compost and mulch piles. Finally, flexible discharge conveyors give operators greater control over material placement, reducing the need for additional handling equipment.

The Komptech Nemus 2700.

Image: Komptech CEA

Contact – KOMPTECH CEA P 1300 788 757 E Marketadmin@cea.net.au W www.komptechceacom.au

KOMPTECH CEA, HURRIKAN S WINDSIFTER Light plastics and film wreaking havoc on your compost production? The Komptech Hurrikan S windsifter is a

powerful ally. Boasting a unique “pressure-suction” process it

removes light contaminants from screened waste, achieving a separation efficiency of up to 95 per cent.

The Hurrikan S’s secret weapon lies in its patented

two-step “pressure-suction” process. A precisely directed

stream of compressed air acts like a virtual knife, separating

The Hurrikan S windsifter empowers processors to achieve

higher throughput, produce cleaner compost, and contribute to a more sustainable waste management cycle.

Komptech Hurrikan S Windsifter boasts a pressure-suction process.

Image: Komptech CEA

light materials from heavier organic matter. Two powerful

suction blowers then take centre stage. Operators can fine tune the suction by adjusting blower speed, distance, and vent flaps to effectively capture and remove the targeted lightweight materials.

This approach reduces the time and effort required for

manually removing contaminants, streamlining operations.

The Hurrikan S prioritises operator control. An

electric drive system allows for precise adjustments to blower settings based on the specific composition of screened waste.

Optional features such as magnetic drums and stone

separators further enhance the quality of recyclable outputs by removing inert, heavy objects.

Contact – KOMPTECH CEA P 1300 788 757 E Marketadmin@cea.net.au W www.komptechceacom.au

www.wastemanagementreview.com.au / WMR / 55

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LAST WORD

Collaboration key to circular solutions A

Sustainability Victoria has a vision for Victoria to become the national leader of circular economy within three years.

How? Chief Executive Officer Matt Genever explains.

s Victoria’s population continues to grow, so too does the strain on resources and the environment.

With the state set to swell to almost eight million residents over the coming decade, we face an increase in emissions from the production, use, consumption, and disposal of materials and waste.

It’s not just the environment that suffers. Material usage is grossly inefficient and according to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Global Waste Management Outlook 2024 report, management of household waste alone will cost the global economy a staggering USD $640.3 billion by 2050.

However, the report’s modelling shows that by taking waste prevention and management measures, costs could be limited to USD $270.2 billion by 2050.

More importantly, projections show that a circular economy model could in fact lead to a full net gain of USD $108.5 billion per year.

Sustainability Victoria recognises the time for change is now, which is why it has a renewed focus on supporting Victoria’s transition to a circular economy. Its vision over the next three years is for Victoria to become the national leader of circular economy.

EMERGENCE OF CIRCULARITY Australia already faces scrutiny for its high carbon dioxide emissions per capita and low material productivity

Matt Genever, Sustainability Victoria Chief Executive Officer.

Image: Sustainability Victoria

rates. As global policies and regulations increasingly prioritise low-emission, nature-positive materials, the nation’s international market competitiveness will decline. By shifting away from a linear system and embracing circularity, Australia reduces material-based emissions, reverses biodiversity loss, and restores precious natural capital.

Changing to a circular economy will not only reduce the growing negative impacts on the environment, it will also generate new economic opportunities.

A report by KPMG suggests that a circular economy in key sectors could

unlock a potential economic benefit of AUD $210 billion in gross domestic product (GDP) and create an additional 17,000 jobs for Australia by 2047-48.

This economic benefit applies to the waste industry. Fostering innovation in waste-to-resource technologies, such as advanced recycling and remanufacturing processes, can create new revenue streams, stimulate job growth, and enhance competitiveness in global markets. According to Access Economics, for every job in landfill, there are 3.3 times more jobs in recycling. www.wastemanagementreview.com.au / WMR / 57

LAST WORD

“The investments have leveraged almost $333 million in private investment and $41.8 million in Federal Government investment, which are set to increase processing capacity by 34 per cent from 2020 to 2025.”

Matt Genever Sustainability Victoria Chief Executive Officer

MATCHMAKING FOR CHANGE Realising the vision of a circular economy requires concerted effort and collaboration from all sectors.

Sustainability Victoria’s plan to accelerate circularity on behalf of the Victorian Government is a crucial step in this journey.

By building the case, it can close the gap between recycling, design, and manufacturing, and drive the uptake of circular behaviours in communities.

This will lay the groundwork for truly meaningful change.

The emphasis on collaboration underscores the importance of collective action in achieving shared goals. There will need to be strong partnerships with industry, as well as collaboration with leading researchers and across wholeof government.

Sustainability Victoria is uniquely positioned to bring together a wide range of stakeholders to develop action plans that embed circular practices and deliver wide-ranging benefits. This has been integral to how Sustainability Victoria has delivered innovation and impact over its long history – matching up ideas to funding and connecting the right technology to those keen to trial new techniques – so that local 58 � WMR � May 2024

markets and investments in Victoria grow, and those all-important recycled materials keep flowing through to their next life and use.

Partnerships fostered to date across government, industry, business and universities are already delivering impact and building a foundation for a circular economy.

TRANSFORMING THE INDUSTRY Circularity can’t flourish without a vibrant recycling sector. Materials re-entering the economy need to be genuine commodities, reliable and high in quality.

Investing in the right innovations, infrastructure, and technology is key for a circular transition, and Sustainability Victoria’s investment facilitation service is successfully matching prospective investors with circular economy opportunities.

The investments have leveraged almost $333 million in private investment and $41.8 million in Federal Government investment, which are set to increase processing capacity by 34 per cent from 2020 to 2025.

A further 100 active investment cases valued at more than $3.7 billion are in the works, with the potential to add

4.97 million tonnes of capacity and more than 1360 jobs to the sector.

The organics sector is burgeoning and is receiving a critical injection of investment from Sustainability Victoria – not only to process higher volume, but to produce better outputs.

Biogro is establishing a Regional Organics Recovery Facility in the Bendigo region that will boost the capacity to process a diverse range of organic materials, while the funding of organics decontamination technology at Pinegro will enable a higher quality compost to be produced from kerbside food organics green organics (FOGO) and, at the same time, create new jobs.

But investment in new ideas is not without risk and that’s where Sustainability Victoria can provide support – it can partner with businesses to de-risk ideas, provide resources, information, training, networking and events – so businesses can connect, collaborate and learn from each other.

By building a foundation for a circular economy and accelerating new markets for recycled materials, as well as educating Victorians through statewide education and behaviour change campaigns, it can make the transition to a circular economy easier to navigate for all.

The scale and pace of change required is significant and needs all parts of business and community to get involved. Sustainability Victoria is committed to deepening partnerships, brokering new collaborations and to open dialogue and knowledge sharing as it supports industry to leverage the opportunities and tackle new challenges in the future circular economy. By working together, the state will have a brighter future, faster.

If you have an idea to test, a problem to solve, research questions to answer contact: www.sustainability.vic.gov.au/about-us/ contact-us

ENGINEERED FOR

A CIRCULAR ECONOMY CDE is here to transform waste materials into valuable recycled products. Our innovative wash plants give you the power to divert tonnes of waste from landfill and create new revenue streams. Move into new, high-value markets, like certified, in spec concrete sand, recovered from CD&E waste.

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Waste Management Review 2024 | MAY | ISSUE 84

www.wastemanagementreview.com.au