Waste management and reduction guide for retail · PDF fileWaste management and reduction Zero Waste SA guide for the retail industry

Zero Waste SAWaste management and reduction guide for the retail industry

Published by Zero Waste SAGPO Box 1047Adelaide SA 5001

Telephone 08 8204 2051Facsimile 08 8204 1911Email [email protected] www.zerowaste.sa.gov.au

ISBN 978-921114-05-3

February 2007

This document may be reproduced in whole or part for the purpose of study or training, subject to the inclusion of an acknowledgement of the source and to its not being used for commercial purposes or sale. Reproduction for purposes other than those given above requires the prior written permission of Zero Waste SA.

Businesses paying mere “lip

service” to the emerging issue

of sustainability are kidding

themselves if they expect a long

future. While markets will again

be drawn to the headline earnings

this profi t reporting season, it is

sustainability that requires the

greatest attention by long term

investors.

Geoff Wells, The Advertiser,

15 August 2006

2

Foreword 4

About this guide 5

Who can benefi t from this guide? 6

What can you learn from this guide? 7

Where to go for help 7

About Zero Waste SA 8

Section 1. Background to developing a waste reduction program 9

Section 2. Benefi ts of waste minimisation systems 10

2.1 What does the community think about waste? 10

2.2 Change from waste disposal to waste minimisation 11

2.3 What are the benefi ts of minimising waste? 11

Section 3. How to introduce a waste reduction program 13

3.1 Establishing an eco/green action group 13

3.2 Green action group facilitator 14

3.3 Green action group meetings 14

3.4 Communication 14

3.5 Determining a vision and terms of reference for the eco/green group 16

3.6 Setting objectives 17

3.7 Consulting with and surveying retailers 17

3.8 Assessment procedures 17

3.9 Developing an action plan and setting priorities 18

Section 4. Identifying waste minimisation opportunities 19

4.1 Avoiding waste 20

Contents

3

Contents

4.2 Reducing waste 20

4.3 Reuse 21

4.4 Recycling 22

4.5 Waste treatment 24

4.6 Waste disposal 25

Section 5. Improving general environmental performance 26

5.1 Why improve general environmental performance? 26

5.2 Energy conservation 26

5.3 Water conservation 28

5.4 Stormwater management 29

5.5 Pollution control 30

5.6 Environmental purchasing 31

Section 6. Marketing alternatives 32

6.1 Communicating effectively 33

Section 7. Getting ready for the plastic bag ban 35

Section 8. Conclusion 36

Appendix

Form 1. Example survey of retailers 38

Form 2. Waste management and recycling audit form 40

Form 3. Example shopping centre green action plan 41

Form 4. Green checklist for retailers and offi ces 43

Form 5. Green guide for shoppers 45

Waste services directory 47

4

Preserving the environment is important to South

Australians who pride themselves on the uniqueness

of their country and its wildlife.

But when the media is full of stories about pollution, the climate change and

the depletion of the ozone layer, it can appear too complicated for individuals

to make a difference.

I assure you we can. Small, seemingly insignifi cant actions by a large number

of concerned people can make a big difference. That’s what environmental

management is really all about – a series of small decisions that can

cumulatively have a big impact.

All of us – centre managers, sales managers, checkout operators, customers,

retailers – have a role to play in helping preserve our environment.

The benefi ts of managing waste better and making customers aware of our

efforts extend to bottom lines and corporate profi les.

This guide has been developed with the assistance of the SA Retail Property

Group (Property Council of Australia) and the State Retailers Association of

SA. This industry support and feedback has been invaluable in ensuring that

the principles outlined in this guide are practical and take into account the

realities of today’s competitive retail environment.

The actions described in this guide will work just as well for individuals as

they do at the corporate level. If you take them your operation, no matter how

big or small, will reduce its impact on the environment.

I commend this guide to you and ask that every day, when you are making

decisions, keep the environment in mind because it is your actions that will

make Australia a better place for all.

Gail Gago

Minister for Environment and Conservation

Foreword

5

This guide for shopping centres is part of Zero Waste SA’s

charter to provide strategic policy advice and direction to

business and industry which promotes waste management

practices that reduce waste consigned to landfill.

About this guideStrategic policy advice

and direction to business

and industry

The guide aims to:

■ provide ways to maximise waste reduction initiatives and the

implementation of recycling opportunities to reduce the amount

of waste being deposited to landfi ll

■ help industry control its waste management activities economically

and effectively with practical and appropriate working examples for

systematic waste reduction

■ help shopping centres and retailers to effectively and economically

manage the environmental impacts of their operations

■ provide a framework for meeting environmental challenges and

improving effi ciency.

This user friendly guide is the basis for a consistent approach to waste

reduction within shopping centres and the retail industry in general. It

should complement current business plans within shopping centres

throughout South Australia.

6

This guide is intended as a tool for shopping centre

management, commercial property owners and

property managers who may be involved with planning

and implementing waste reduction and recycling

programs within shopping centres.

Who can benefi t from this guide?

Generally waste management services are a cooperative approach between

management and retailers. Thus management is likely to play a leadership role

in any waste reduction and recycling initiatives. However, waste prevention on

a large scale is a joint effort between retailers and centre management.

The examples and case studies in this guide can help both shopping centres

overall and individual retail businesses within the centre, to reduce waste.

I think that the issue of sustainability is fast becoming important to all

generations of Australians. The uptake of re-useable plastic bags by

the population has shown that given sound positive information the

public will respond.

There are so many areas of pollution in our environment that we cannot

control and need Governments to take a leadership role, but it is my belief that

the community is fast sending a message to our leaders that we will support

and embrace any changes in our activity that will benefi t the environment.

This sustainability guide is one such document that supports that end.

Mike Haywood

President Waste Management Association of Australia (SA Branch)

The shopping centre industry is one

of the largest manufacturers of waste,

and it is imperative that we implement

environmental programs to reduce

impacts on landfi ll and save water.

Take up the challenge of

implementing Environmental Best

Practice in your centre and preserve

our resources for future generations.

Kate Knight

SA Retail Property Group

Ineffective waste disposal

has a negative effect on our

environment. A cooperative

approach within the retail industry

to effi cient waste reduction and

resource recovery can minimise

or negate that impact. This guide

can assist SA’s retail industry

to introduce effective waste

reduction and management

approaches to assist the principle

of a sustainable future for all.

I commend this guide to all in

the retail industry.

Max Baldock President, State

Retailers Association of South

Australia

What can you learn from this guide?

This guide does not attempt to provide a ‘one size fits

all’ answer to introducing waste reduction and recycling

programs for everyone involved in the retail industry. It

intends to provide general concepts and opportunities

to consider in planning and launching an effective and

ongoing program.

Shopping centre managers and operational staff can use information in this

guide to determine the appropriate scope and design of their waste reduction

and recycling program, based on the situation within their own centre.

Individual retailers can also determine waste reduction initiatives when

assessing their own waste generation practices as part of the centre’s overall

coordinated approach to waste minimisation.

Where to go for helpThe waste services directory at the end of this guide

(page 47) lists organisations, with contact details, that

offer waste management and recycling services.

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8

Zero Waste SA is part of the Environment and

Conservation Portfolio. It has the primary objective of

promoting waste management practices that, as far as

possible, eliminate waste or its consignment to landfill,

and advance the development of resource recovery and

recycling. These objectives are based on an integrated

strategy for South Australia.

About Zero Waste SA

South Australia’s Strategic Plan includes a goal to ‘reduce waste to landfi ll by

25% within 10 years’ – that is, by 2014. Zero Waste SA is the key to achieving

that goal and has outlined how we as a community can achieve this reduction

and other targets in South Australia’s Waste Strategy 2005–2010.

The functions of ZWSA are prescribed in the Zero Waste SA Act 2004 and

include the development and implementation of government policies on

waste management, raising public and industry awareness about waste

management, programs for preventing litter and illegal dumping, and the

development of markets for recovered resources and recycled materials.

Further information

For further information about Zero Waste SA please visit

www.zerowaste.sa.gov.au

A demonstrated commitment to sound environmental

practices and increased sustainability is part of

generally accepted corporate social responsibility

increasingly demanded by the community,

shareholders and other stakeholders.

Environmental improvement approaches are seen as an essential tool to

assist business to maintain regulatory compliance, improve productivity and

develop a competitive advantage.

The increasing numbers of businesses focusing their attention on improving

environmental aspects of their operations are realising that beyond the

environmental advantages there are tangible benefi ts to their bottom line.

Shopping centres are in a position to play a major role in providing a

better environment for future generations as well as meeting community

expectations through improving environmental performance, in particular

by introducing effective waste reduction and recycling programs.

In developing a waste reduction program, shopping centres are able to

position themselves as organisations that care for the community and

the environment.

From a marketing perspective, the ‘green’ shopping centre appeals to

existing customers, and to the discerning and expanding ‘green’ consumer

market. Future customers become familiar with the centre’s philosophy

through support of environmental education activities within schools in the

centres’ target regions.

Section 1.Background to

developing a

waste reduction

program

9

10

Section 2.Benefits of waste

minimisation systems

Cooperation between all levels of government, business, industry and the

community is necessary to achieve, effectively and cooperatively, systems to

minimise and recycle waste, and reach national waste minimisation goals.

2.1 What does the community think about waste?

Community concern for environmental issues, and in particular waste

reduction, shows no signs of abating. The community is now much

more aware and has a deeper understanding of the complexities of

waste reduction (Working with the community, October 2005,

www.zerowaste.sa.gov.au/market_research.php).

With the community requesting a reduction in excess packaging and more

recycling, many local government organisations have

introduced kerbside recycling schemes and industry

has introduced methods to reduce packaging and

address other environmental issues.

Australia has a population of around 20 million people, most of whom live in capital or

major cities close to the eastern and southern seaboards. Each year, about 1 tonne of

waste per person is generated – that’s 20 million tonnes of waste from commercial,

industrial and domestic sources.

And much of it is disposed of in landfills.


minimisation

systems

2.2 Change from waste disposal to waste minimisation

This guide identifi es methods to follow as shopping centres see the need to move

from the present system of operation, primarily emphasising disposal, to a new

approach embracing resource conservation, waste reduction and minimisation.

The development of waste minimisation approaches allows a shopping centre

to review current practices, comply with statutory regulations and its own

internal requirements, and review manufacturer’s packaging methods.

The shopping centre thus identifi es opportunities to improve environmental

performance by reducing resource consumption and the amount of waste

produced – for environmental, economic and social benefi t.

2.3 What are the benefits

of minimising waste?

Producing waste within a retail

environment negatively impacts

on everyone who operates within

a centre’s ‘bottom line’. Good

waste management is good

business management.

The benefi ts go beyond reducing

waste to landfi ll. Preventing waste

not only saves resources and reduces

pollution, it also saves money.

Overall benefi ts

An effective waste reduction

program develops a competitive

advantage by improving overall

management performance, improves

employee morale, reduces operating

costs and is in line with principles of

best practice operating methods.

Centres with an effective waste

minimisation and management

program are seen as responsible,

caring corporate citizens, sensitive

to environmental issues – and can

attract customers who favour a

‘green’ image.

Other benefi ts include:

■ improved compliance with

environmental regulations

■ better use of resources

■ savings from waste minimisation

and reduced disposal costs

■ enhanced public image

■ increased profi ts.

Economic benefi ts

An effective waste minimisation

and management program can

reduce the amount of waste being

sent to landfi ll by over 60% (Centro

Colonnades Shopping Centre, 1995).

Savings on collection and disposal

costs can then be offset against the

cost of initiating waste minimisation

and management programs.

Disposal costs can only rise as

landfi ll sites become harder to fi nd

and further from city centres. Much

higher operating standards, and

thus increased costs, as well as

restrictions on the types of waste

that can be sent to landfi ll, are now

expected. A cooperative approach

is the key to reducing costs.

As suppliers and producers

respond to ‘green’ pressure and

streamline their systems to minimise

packaging and waste, their costs

should also decrease.

The many potential benefi ts

to be gained from minimising

waste can only be realised by

identifi cation of all costs associated

with existing disposal systems,

including hidden costs.

11

Social benefi ts

Minimising waste is an ideal way

to reinforce existing community

attitudes and current environmental

awareness and education programs,

particularly in local government and

the education system.

Market research consistently

shows that concern for the

environment rates highly within the

community. Waste minimisation and

management programs are seen by

many as an ideal opportunity to do

something for the environment.

Waste minimisation and management

programs can therefore create goodwill

within the community, and thus

opportunities for centres and retailers

to promote their ‘green image’.

The community’s awareness of the

natural and built environment can

be raised by involving them in a

program they perceive as helping

the environment. It could be as

simple as this: a campaign to involve

customers in a shopping centre’s

recycling program could mean less

littering in and around the centre

- and a lower cleaning budget for

the centre.

Materials recovery and treatment

can be labour intensive, so the

introduction of a waste minimisation

and management program has the

potential to create employment at

the local level. As the retail industry

develops programs to comply

with legislation, such as EPA’s

Water Quality Policy for stormwater

pollution prevention, it can

take advantage of the ideal

opportunities to further relationships

with the local council and State

Government agencies.

Environmental benefi ts

Minimising waste conserves

resources.

Conserving resources not only

reduces waste; it can reduce

pollution. As industry consumes

fewer raw materials, it uses less

fossil fuel and less pollution is

the result.

At present most solid waste ends up

in landfi ll. Specifi c risks associated

with landfi ll sites are now better

understood. An effective waste

minimisation and management

program can take a proactive

approach to lessening shopping

centres’ impact on the environment.


minimisation

systems

12

Section 3. How to introduce a waste

reduction program

3.1 Establishing an eco/green action group

The best waste reduction results will come from people having a strong sense

of participation, cooperation and consultation in the program’s formulation

and implementation. The people concerned manage the environmental issues

and the program directly refl ects their priorities and needs.

Ideally, the coordinating group would comprise a mix of centre management

and tenants. It can contain members of centre management, in particular the

operations manager, staff from the marketing area, and invited and interested

retailers. It may be appropriate that staff from the centre’s waste management

organisation could also be invited to be part of the group. Policy development

that is ‘owned’ by both centre management and the centre’s retailers will not

be perceived as being a ‘centre management-driven’ initiative.

CASE STUDY

Centro Colonnades’ ECO group continues to look at ways to encourage and

recognise environmental education initiatives within the community. This

includes nurturing links with local schools and community groups who are

active contributors to environmental projects through the centre’s ECOFund

support program. This provides a focus within the centre to promote their

activities as well as continuing to form strong partnerships within the centre’s

target areas.

The success of a waste minimisation and management

program hinges on an effective coordinating ‘eco/green

action’ group (let them pick their own name), and on people

within centres, both management and retailers, being

supportive and committed to minimising waste.

13

14

Section 3. How to introduce

a waste reduction

program

3.2 Eco/green action group facilitator

A facilitator needs to be elected from the group and may be from centre management, or as agreed. The role is to set

agendas, record deliberations and generally coordinate the determinations agreed in meetings.

3.3 Eco/green action group meetings

The group will only be successful if meetings are well organised, short and at a time convenient to all members.

Keep in mind that retailers and centre management staff have other tasks to perform:

■ Keep meetings to half an hour or less.

■ Conduct meetings on a less busy trading day and in a quiet period, such as mornings from 8.30 am, or as agreed

by group members.

3.4 Communication

Development of the waste reduction program will only be successful with good, clear communications:

■ Provide a record of discussions to members of the group at least a week before the next meeting.

■ Use the centre’s in-house newsletter to advise retailers of issues being addressed by the group.

■ Arrange a monthly ‘eco column’ through a local suburban media organisation in the form of ‘advertorial’

to promote issues being handled by the shopping centre and retailers.

■ Set up a display area within the centre to inform shoppers about improved environmental performance.

■ Ask local schools or environmental groups to participate in the promotion of positive environmental action

and activities.

■ For other marketing opportunities see section 6.

An eco corner can promote environmental initiatives


reduction program

Steps to set up a shopping centre waste reduction program

Establish an eco/green group

The waste reduction program development recognises that the best results will come from people having a strong sense

of participation, ownership and consultation in its formulation and implementation. Therefore, managing environmental

issues will be determined by the people concerned and directly refl ecting their priorities and needs.

Eco/green group meetings

If the eco/green group is to be successful, meetings need to be well organised, short and at a time convenient to all members.

Initial tasks to be undertaken by eco/green group

Determine a vision and terms of reference for the eco/green group.

Set objectives.

Consult with and survey retailers

Surveying also provides a mechanism for ‘one on one’ communication with retailers as well as an opportunity

for feedback to be gained from within their own premises.

Audit current situation

Undertake an audit to help establish which topics require action, who is responsible, and where and when the activity

takes place.

With this data, as well as feedback from retailers, the eco/green group should be in a position to prioritise action.

Develop an action plan

Devise an action plan to ensure the program is managed effi ciently. The plan needs to identify

a timeframe, monitor progress, identify resources, determine a budget and set up an evaluation process.

Review position

Monitor and evaluate the program to identify strengths and weaknesses, monitor performance and ensure

accountability - and reveal future directions.

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3.5 Determining a vision and terms of reference for

the eco/green group

A vision and terms of reference for the group will help its members, and the

public, understand the waste reduction development process. This also

shows the group is not merely a marketing exercise and encourages support

from, for example, Zero Waste SA, Environment Protection Authority, other

government agencies, KESAB, schools and environmental groups.

Example vision for green action group

To add a comprehensive environmental focus to a centre’s retail and

management operations and to raise community awareness of general

environmental issues through a range of educational and promotional

activities within the centre.

Section 3. How to introduce

a waste reduction

program

Example terms of reference for

green action group

The group will:

■ become familiar with the basic

principles of ecologically

sustainable development (ESD)

(see defi nitions below)

■ be familiar with the process of

developing a waste reduction

program for the centre

■ set priorities for issues that affect

the centre and its stakeholders

■ establish baseline data for

current issues in the centre

■ set objectives to achieve the

group’s vision

■ arrange action plans to

implement and evaluate

the policy

■ ensure the process is ongoing

and reviewed regularly

■ be aware that retailers in shopping

centres are in a continuous

state of change. New tenants

and staff need to be inducted

and fully informed of policies

and if interested, be given the

opportunity to participate in the

action group.

ESD defi nition

‘Sustainable development is

development that meets the needs

of the present without compromising

the ability of future generations to

meet their own needs.’

(Our Common Future: The World

Commission on Environment

and Development,

G. Brundtland, ed., 1987).

Australia’s National Strategy

for Ecologically Sustainable

Development (1992) defi nes ESD

as ‘using, conserving and enhancing

the community’s resources so that

ecological processes, on which

life depends, are maintained, and

the total quality of life, now and in

the future, can be increased’.


reduction program

3.6 Setting objectives

Establish a range of objectives for the

waste reduction program. Priorities

for minimising waste include:

■ avoiding waste, which in

effect targets consumer

behaviour and purchasing

choices and promotes cleaner

production initiatives

■ reusing resources including

refi lling containers

■ introducing effective recycling

programs.

Example objectives for a

shopping centre

■ Adopt and apply the principles

of ESD

■ Adopt the best environmental

standards available in all aspects

of centre operations

■ Strive to minimise the use of all

materials, supplies and energy,

and wherever possible use

renewable or recyclable materials

■ Minimise waste produced and

aim for ‘waste-free’ processes

■ Encourage and expect similar

environmental standards from

all suppliers, vendors and

contractors to the centre

■ Effectively market the centre’s

environmental position

■ Encourage retailer involvement

in environmental action

■ Communicate regularly with

the local community

■ Continuously assess the

environmental impact of all

the centre’s operations

■ Raise community awareness

of general environmental

issues through a range of

educational and promotional

activities within the centre in

cooperation with recognised

environmental organisations.

3.7 Consulting with and

surveying retailers

A survey or personal contact will

ascertain whether retailers have

ideas or suggestions for, or concerns

about, establishing a waste reduction

program. Some retailers or areas in

the centre might already be using

some great examples of good

environmental practice – it could be

the use of environmentally friendly

cleaning products, or reuse or

recycling of materials.

Surveying also provides a

mechanism for effective

communication with retailers

and feedback from them. The

appendix has an example of a

survey form (Form 1).

3.8 Assessment

procedures

An audit or assessment of current

waste management practices at the

shopping centre will help establish

which areas require action, who is

responsible, and where and when

the activity takes place.

Assessed elements should include

waste management and minimisation,

education and training as well

as marketing opportunities. The

appendix has an example of an

audit form (Form 2).

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3.9 Developing an action plan and setting priorities

The objectives, feedback from retailers and assessment data are the ingredients for the eco/green action group to

determine actions and prioritise them in an action plan.

An action plan ensures the waste reduction program is effi ciently managed. The plan identifi es a timeframe,

monitors progress, identifi es resources, determines a budget and sets up an evaluation process.


reduction program

A typical action plan is included in the appendix (Form 3).

Action plan issues

Waste minimisation and recycling

■ Offi ce systems

■ Paper and cardboard

■ Plastics

■ PET bottles and containers, cans and glass

■ Compostible material

■ Grease arrestors

■ Toxic or hazardous materials

■ Public systems

Community and retailer education

■ Marketing alternatives

■ Schools program

■ Eco corner/centre in centres

■ Internal communications

■ External communications

■ Developing opportunities to

promote positive achievements

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AVOID: not producing/purchasing

materials which will become waste

REDUCE: producing/purchasing

less materials which will

become waste

REUSE: using materials more

than once before recycling or

disposing of them

RECYCLE: remanufacturing

used materials into new

products/resources

RECOVER: capturing otherwise

wasted resources (e.g. recovering

and using heat from electricity

generation processes

TREATMENT: treating materials to

minimise harmful effects on land,

water or air

DISPOSAL: releasing materials/

pollutants to land, water or air

Section 4. Identifying waste

minimisation

opportunities

Most Preferrable

Least Preferrable

AVOID

REDUCE

REUSE

RECYCLE

RECOVER

TREATMENT

DISPOSAL

Introducing the waste management hierarchy

The waste management hierarchy is an ordered sequence of initiatives that

can be used to identify steps to reduce waste within a shopping centre. Its 7

levels move from preferred at the top to least referred at the bottom. Avoiding

waste is the most desirable option in the hierarchy with the disposal of waste

being the least-preferred option.

20

4.2 Reducing waste

Changes to a product or process

to reduce the waste it produces or

generates

Potential waste areas

Product design

■ Encourage manufacturers to

change product design in order

to use fewer materials

Packaging/materials

■ Encourage suppliers and retailers

to use only as much wrapping or

packaging material as required

■ Discourage the use of

polystyrene boxes and fi lling

■ Reuse cardboard boxes before

purchasing new ones

■ Encourage the use of reusable

plates and cutlery in food courts

■ Use signs as a reminder to

reduce waste and recycle.

Potential savings

Energy savings

■ When purchasing new

equipment, select the most

energy effi cient item

■ Adjust timing switches to suit

seasonal needs

■ Evaluate public lighting areas

■ Use energy effi cient lighting

Water savings

■ Check for dripping taps and

faulty cisterns

■ Encourage the use of

environmentally preferred and/or

biodegradable cleaning agents

Materials savings

In the offi ce introduce procedures

that limit waste:

■ encourage the use of recycled

paper

■ organise collection of offi ce

paper for recycling

■ print documents on both sides

of paper

■ reuse the blank side of used paper

for notes or in-offi ce memos

■ recycle used print/copy

cartridges

■ reduce paper use by using email

■ limit printouts to necessary

items only.

In the shopping centre

■ provide information to retailers

and shoppers to encourage

support for waste reduction

A green checklist for retailers (Form

4) and a green guide for shoppers

(Form 5) can be found

in the appendix.


minimisation

opportunities

4.1 Avoiding waste

(most preferred)

Complete removal of components or

packaging from production; changes

to production processes

Potential waste areas

Product design

■ Where possible, encourage

change in product design to

reduce materials consumption

Packaging/materials

■ Avoid the need for plastic

shrink wrapping

■ Encourage suppliers to provide

crates instead of pallets

■ Negotiate with suppliers to

remove unnecessary packaging

from products

■ Encourage retailers to use

products made of recyclable

material and packaged in

recycled material

Garden design

■ Create mulched gardens instead

of lawns around centres

■ Use native plants to reduce

water use

Ways to avoid waste

Offer alternatives

■ Encourage the use of reusable

and refi llable products

Educate/raise awareness

In partnership with recognised

environmental organisations

organisations such as KESAB:

■ arrange community awareness

promotions on waste streams

and public action

■ introduce displays of available

reusable and recycled products

for retailers and shoppers


minimisation opportunities

4.3 Reuse

Features enabling a product to be reused many times, such as more durable

refi ll packs and reusable containers

Reuse initiatives

Packaging/materials

■ Encourage suppliers to provide rigid plastic crates as alternative to

disposable cardboard boxes

■ Identify and encourage suppliers/retailers to reuse cardboard boxes

or other ‘waste’ products

Organic materials

■ Ensure trimmed branches from the centre’s gardens are mulched

and reused as surface mulch or compost

■ Encourage, where possible and practicable, systems to remove organic

materials from waste stream (in-vessel organic systems dramatically

reduce the amount of putrescible waste to landfi ll)

CASE STUDY

Centro Colonnades is the fi rst

shopping centre in Australia to

introduce a Peat’s Soil BiobiN

organic system. Discarded fruit,

vegetable and other organic

materials are stored onsite as

an alternative to disposal to

landfi ll. Since the system was

introduced in 2000, over 400

tonnes of green organics has

been composted and recycled to

produce a rich mulch product.

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Offer alternatives

■ Encourage suppliers and retailers to look at alternatives such as refi lls in

original containers

■ Introduce alternative and reusable shopping bags instead of plastic bags

Develop partnerships

■ Develop a partnership with the water authority to promote water

reuse schemes

■ Look to local schools, kindergartens and/or environmental groups to

reuse materials no longer required by retailers, such as:

■ polystyrene boxes to greening or tree planting groups for plant

propagation or kindergartens

■ packaging and/or paper to a local kindergarten for art classes

■ fi lm canisters to cosmetics fi rms for samples

The green checklist in the appendix (Form 4) has more hints for retailers.

4.4 Recycling

Processes for reforming materials used into new articles; opportunities for

cash return

A successful recycling program needs suitable markets for the recycled

material. The support of a professional waste management organisation

should facilitate market development and other opportunities.

Equipment

Recycling equipment in a shopping centre can vary with the needs, size

of centres and available markets for recycling. Clearly identify all recycling

equipment with consistent and effective signs to encourage use and to

eliminate contamination.

Bin types

Normal council-style ‘wheelie’ bins of 120 or 240 cubic litre capacity can be

used for general rubbish or for recycling purposes at designated areas. They

can be transported to one or more separation sites for:

■ compacting for landfi ll waste

■ recycling of paper/cardboard, bottles, cans or PET plastic

■ composting.


minimisation

opportunities

Wheeled ‘skip’ type refuse storage

receptacles of 1.5 or 2 cubic metre

capacity with close-fi tting lids are

the preferred receptacles for general

waste. Some centres may also wish to

use them for recycling large amounts

of paper and cardboard. If so, paint

individual bins in different colours and

feature signs to differentiate them.

Various other receptacles can be

sourced that comply with particular

recycling systems:

■ paper recycling boxes for each

retailer supplied by a recognised

organisation, for example Amcor,

SITA and Visy

■ well designed and simple mall

furniture to enable shoppers to

deposit rubbish separately from

bottles, cans and PET plastics

■ any other recognised receptacle

that provides an easy, effective

and safe complement to

recycling systems within a

retail environment.

Recycling initiatives

In the offi ce

■ Introduce an effi cient paper and

cardboard recycling system

for retailers and within centre

management offi ces

■ Ensure printer and copier toner

cartridges are refi lled or recycled

In the shopping centre

■ Introduce recycling collection

sites for shoppers to deposit:

■ PET plastic, bottles and

aluminium or steel cans

■ used printer and toner

cartridges

■ corks

■ batteries

In retail shops

■ Introduce an effective paper and

cardboard recycling system

■ Encourage recycling of oil and

batteries from motor vehicle

maintenance services

■ Arrange the recycling of grease,

fats and frying oils


minimisation

opportunities

CASE STUDY

Centro Colonnades’ system for

bottles, cans and PET items has

been in operation within the centre’s

shopping malls with funds raised

directed towards local schools and

environmental groups in programs

that assist the environment. Over

40 000 items have been recycled

and diverted from landfi ll over

6 years.

23

CASE STUDY

An average 2 to 3 tonnes

is recycled from Centro

Colonnades each week. Since

1995, the centre has recycled

over 1300 tonnes of paper and

cardboard. This system has

effectively reduced the centre’s

waste to landfi ll by two-thirds.

24

In construction and garden operations

■ Ensure any building rubble associated with, for example, renovations is

removed and encourage contractors to recycle it

■ Ensure gardening staff at the shopping centre recycle green waste

Develop partnerships, educate/raise awareness

■ Check with local council on the materials that can be recycled and if

the council can assist with the recycling process

■ Continue to inform and educate retailers and shoppers on the

recycling system

■ Encourage their continuing support to minimise and eliminate

contamination

Form 5 in the appendix lists educational materials.

CASE STUDY

An innovative fl uro tube recycling program is in place within Centro

Colonnades as a partnership approach to reducing the potential threat of

heavy metals polluting landfi ll sites. Partners include the City of Onkaparinga,

Christies Beach High School, Onkaparinga TAFE College and Noarlunga

Health Services. See the Waste Services Directory for details of companies

which recycle fl uro tubes.

4.5 Waste treatment

Processes that reduce the toxicity of waste or reduce volume before disposal

Waste treatment initiatives

■ Arrange for the separation of materials collected from public recycling

areas within the malls before transporting to recycling organisation

■ Ensure trimmed branches from centre’s gardens are mulched and reused

■ Establish facilities and/or collection of hazardous wastes, including dry

cleaning chemicals


minimisation opportunities


minimisation

opportunities4.6 Waste disposal (least preferred)

Last resort and least-preferred option includes methods such as disposal

of waste to landfi ll and other such displacement sites

After all avenues for waste minimisation have been exhausted, some waste

must go to landfi ll. The centre’s waste minimisation and management

program will dramatically reduce the current 90% or more

of all solid waste generated in Australia that is disposed of in landfi ll sites.

As community resistance to new landfi ll sites near residential areas is

increasing, the scope for expanding capacity to meet continuing demand at

the current rate is restricted and disposal costs will continue to rise.

An effective waste minimisation and management program at your shopping

centre will reduce its waste management budget and decrease the

environmental, social and economic impacts of its waste disposal.

Develop a waste services directory (see appendix) for your shopping centre

that lists all services relevant to the needs of your waste management and

minimisation program.

25

26

Section 5. Improving general

environmental

performance

Clean and healthy shopping centres take every opportunity to minimise

pollution and introduce measures to control potential pollution sources.

Green shopping centres practise:

■ energy conservation

■ water conservation/stormwater management

■ pollution control including air, odour and noise

■ environmental purchasing.

5.2 Energy conservation

Most of our energy is derived from burning non-renewable fossil fuels which

releases carbon dioxide and other gases into the atmosphere and contributes

to the greenhouse effect and to general air pollution.

Most energy is used in lighting, cooling and heating. Positive action in energy

conservation can limit the impact on the environment and save money as well.

5.1 Why improve general environmental performance?

Many activities of people and business in today’s world consume large amounts of natural resources and release waste

products. Pollution from business activities can fi nd its way back into the natural environment where it can impact and

diminish nature’s ability to recover from human intervention.

Business activities are sustainable only if natural resources can be used in a way that allows the environment to retain

the capability to produce and recover from this impact. Improved general environmental performance will also help

reduce waste production – the two go hand in hand.

26

27


environmental

performance

Conserving energy

■ Turn off lights out of working

hours

■ Turn off lights and airconditioners

in areas not used with manual

switches, movement sensors or

timing devices

■ Turn off computer equipment

when not in use

■ Select offi ce equipment, such

as copiers and printers, that use

less power when on standby

■ Encourage retailers to install

energy-effi cient fl uorescent

globes which save energy and

money

■ Install time clocks on equipment

that needs power only at specifi c

periods of operation

■ Encourage the planting of trees

as they absorb carbon dioxide

from the atmosphere

■ Explore alternative technologies,

such as solar power for hot water

generation and heating/cooling

Energy savings can be realised

by adopting ‘good housekeeping’

energy maintenance techniques.

Regular energy audits will help

centres with energy effi ciency,

and save energy and money.

CASE STUDY

Adelaide Central Plaza’s installation of a cogeneration plant enables

substantially reduced operating costs and minimises greenhouse gas

emissions. Green power is also available to tenants at a small extra cost

per kilowatt hour. The centre’s upgrade of their power metering system now

monitors areas of high or unnecessary usage to identify potential areas for

cost savings.

28


environmental

performance

CASE STUDY

Westfi eld Marion has dramatically reduced water consumption, and costs for retailers, since it introduced initiatives in

2004-05. Consumption has dropped by 19% overall, and 12.4% in the second year of the program, by:

■ redesigning cooling towers to improve effi ciency

■ replacing overhead sprinklers with drippers in garden beds

■ programming timers on lawn sprinklers to operate in the early morning to reduce evaporation

■ installing fl ow-controlled, vandal-proof aerators on taps in public restrooms.

5.3 Water conservation

Water is essential for all

living things.

Better water management and

conservation in a retail shopping

environment has many benefi ts:

it saves money and energy, it

reduces pollution of waterways

within our communities, it

aesthetically improves surroundings

and it can limit impact on our

aquatic and coastal environment.

The following elements of water

conservation and management relate

to general use of water and stormwater

pollution prevention methods.

Australia is the driest developed

continent on earth; it makes good

sense that we use and dispose of

water as thoughtfully as possible. It

makes good business sense as well

because it can save you money.

Conserving water

■ Check that toilet area taps

and cisterns aren’t dripping and

monitor them regularly

■ Ensure that water

conservation devices are

installed including dual-fl ush

toilets and, if applicable,

low-fl ow shower roses

■ Consult with centre gardening

staff to ensure that effi cient

and effective irrigation systems

are installed, green waste is

mulched, hours of watering

monitored to reduce evaporation

loss and planting practices are

reviewed for selection of suitable

plant species

■ Ensure that gardening staff

water gardens and not concrete

and bitumen

■ Ensure that cleaning staff use

phosphate-free cleaning products

to reduce nutrient levels

■ Distribute water conservation

advice to retailers and encourage

the use of environmentally

friendly cleaning products

■ Use recycled paper in toilets

■ Develop a partnership with

relevant water authority to

promote water conservation

and reuse schemes

5.4 Stormwater

management

Runoff from large open spaces

adjacent to centres can gather

enormous amounts of rubbish,

pollutants and waste and deposit

them in adjacent waterways

including rivers and creeks, and

eventually our coastal environment.

Managing stormwater

■ Ensure waste storage and

collection areas are roofed to

prevent stormwater access, or

at the least ensure waste skips

have lids to prevent entry of

rainwater or waste dispersed

by wind

■ Ensure all putrescible waste is

enclosed in sealed containers

before disposal into industrial

waste bins

■ Keep service alleys and

waste collection areas clear

of loose rubbish

■ Consult the local water authority

on stormwater diversion

systems for loading bays

■ Audit sites regularly to

ensure there are no incorrect

connections, for example

fl oor drains to stormwater or

stormwater to sewer

■ Install, service and maintain litter

interception devices in centre

stormwater entries

■ If possible, direct stormwater to

landscaped areas or specially

designed dedicated grass swales

to fi lter water before it enters the

stormwater system

■ Ensure that staff and

retailers sweep rather than

hose down areas

■ Be aware of the dangers from

cigarette butts; install ‘butt bins’

in outside areas and ensure that

cleaners regularly monitor them

■ Place clearly labelled litter

bins in prominent positions in

parking areas

■ Develop a relationship with local

catchment water management

authorities to network

opportunities for mutual benefi t

■ Ensure gardening staff reduce

herbicide use for weed control

■ Arrange for steam cleaning of

surfaces affected by unsightly

deposits, such as gum and oil


environmental

performance

CASE STUDY

Stockland Parabanks’ uses

stormwater drain stencilling program

visual methods to raise community

awareness of the need to protect

local waterways through effective

control of litter and waste. Drains

are also regularly maintained to

remove build up of any waste

materials together with a program

for sweeping of car park areas to

minimise litter problems.

CASE STUDY

Numerous centres are providing

dedicated cigarette butt bins for

smokers in designated areas away

from entrances to comply with new

smoking legislation. Smokers are

encouraged to use bins in preference

to discarding butts on footpaths or in

gutters and eventually ending up in

local waterways.

29

30

5.5 Pollution control

Make the shopping environment in your centre as comfortable as possible

for shoppers and retailers by complying with government regulations, and

controlling air, odour and noise pollution.


environmental

performance

Controlling pollution

Air

■ Ensure that air monitoring audits are regular and sample: temperature,

humidity, dust, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, ozone, micro-organisms,

airborne asbestos and others as required by relevant standards

■ Arrange for regular sampling of Legionella bacteria from cooling towers

■ Regularly examine air handling units inside ductworks

■ Raise centre managment, retailer and community awareness of ozone layer

depletion issues, for example fridge gas, car airconditioners and halon gas

disposal, through a cooperative approach with government authorities

■ Promote tree planting to fi lter and cool air around centres

Odour

■ Install odour extractors in toilets

■ Install extractors into loading areas to eliminate vehicle fumes

■ Install deodorisers in and around waste compactors

Noise

■ Monitor excess noise in and around centres

■ Monitor external contractors and apply conditions to limit noise

■ Consider the noise impact when purchasing new plant and equipment


environmental

performance

An environmental purchasing policy

in a retail environment should:

■ establish purchasing guidelines

for waste prevention (durability,

concentration, reuse and

high quality)

■ consider the length of warranty

and availability of repairs when

purchasing equipment

■ perform life cycle cost analysis

on products, assessing

maintenance, energy and water

use and disposal methods

■ allow a price preference for

durable, reusable, repairable and

recycled products

■ purchase refi llable or

reusable products

■ purchase in bulk to minimise

packaging

■ order merchandise with minimal

packaging or layers

of packaging

■ avoid or minimise the purchase

of products that can cause

environmental harm such as

cleaning materials, preservatives,

pesticides and fungicides

■ look to eliminate the

purchase of products that

contain toxic materials

■ request that deliveries be

transported in returnable

containers

■ place orders by phone or email

■ encourage ‘environmentally

friendly’ products created locally

and/or regionally

■ refuse any packaging that

uses styrene foam

■ provide educational material

to retailers and staff regarding

waste prevention through

purchasing.

Form 4 and Form 5 in the appendix

have more hints for retailers.

5.6 Environmental purchasing

Shopping centres and retailers, as major purchasers of goods and services, are

in a position to exercise considerable infl uence on certain product markets.

In looking to introduce an effective environmental purchasing policy, centres

must fi rst review existing policies and ensure that new policies promote the

purchase of products that minimise waste and environmental impact.

31

Shopping centres can gain a competitive advantage in

developing and gaining positive marketing alternatives

from their improved environmental and waste

minimisation performance.

Section 6. Marketing alternatives

Target audiences should include:

■ retailers

■ customers (existing and new)

■ schools in the centre’s

catchment areas

■ credible and established

environmental organisations.

A broad range of promotional

options becomes available with

a focused approach to raising

environmental performance within

shopping centres.

This includes a host of opportunities

to provide wholesome, educational

school holiday activities and ongoing

community awareness raising and

environmental education displays.

Various hands-on, interactive

activities can be introduced and

include building animals from papier-

mâché; ‘Come and wriggle with

worms’; ‘Find out what to do with

worm poo’; ‘Check out compost

creatures’; ‘Cuddle a koala’; ‘Have

your photo taken with the Easter

Bilby’ and more.

Recognised environmental

organisations, environmental

protection authorities, government

departments, national parks

agencies, as well as local

government departments have

resources available to assist in

this area. Opportunities are available

to initiate partnerships between

centres and the environmental

network for mutual benefi t.

Local schools’ environmental activities

also provide opportunities for

centres to develop, build and extend

relationships within their communities.

32

School holiday activities focusing

on environmental topics

6.1 Communicating

effectively

The community can’t favour a green

shopping centre unless it is informed

of its new environmental activities,

programs and services.

Effective communication with

target audiences maximises the

opportunities associated with a

shopping centre’s aim to reduce

environmental impacts and

builds relationships with the local

community. Here are some ideas.

Eco corner/area

Introduce a bright, colourful area set

aside and dedicated to promoting

environmental action. It is a positive

way of involving the community and

promoting current issues.

■ Focus on three display

elements – what’s happening

in centres, what’s happening

in the community and how the

community can be involved or

take action.

■ Set up and change displays

regularly.

■ Establish a network with

environmental organisations,

levels of government and local

schools to promote examples

of positive, proactive

environmental action.

■ Ensure promotional materials

are graphical; keep text to a

minimum.

■ Use the KISS principle in

arranging display materials:

keep it simple – literacy levels

vary greatly.

Eco awards

Introduce environmental awards

that recognise and encourage

positive action within the

community. The award could

be directed at action within schools,

environmental organisations or the

general community.

Encourage retailers and staff to

aim at achieving best practice in

environmental improvements by

introducing a regular retailer and/or

centre staff award to recognise

positive action.

Section 6. Marketing

alternatives

33

34

Communication

Think about ways of communicating with your target audience:

■ Promote environmental issues in direct mail or in-centre publications,

and reinforce positive action within centres and the community.

■ Link ‘green’ information in media advertising to promote specifi c issues.

■ Coordinate a monthly ‘green’ column as an advertorial within the local

press. Take the opportunity to promote action within centres. Look to

encourage the local community to contribute – a great way to develop

strong, mutually benefi cial relationships.

A centre’s positive effect of raising environmental performance can be

promoted in other ways:

■ Nominate the waste reduction program within your centre for local

government or environmental awards or recognition. Recognition raises

public awareness but more importantly it encourages continuing action

within your centre.

■ Where possible, get involved in local fairs and school fetes to

promote environmental action at your centre. If possible, sponsor an

environmental element of the activities.

■ Reinforce positive action with continuous educational materials, to

encourage retailers and shoppers to continue with their positive

green actions.

A fully integrated marketing plan promoting the development of a waste

reduction program is only constrained by the imagination.

Section 6. Marketing

alternativessouthernlife

World Environment Day

Celebrations

Thursday 2nd June, Centre Court, Lower Level at Centro Colonnades

Beach Road Noarlunga Centre 8384 2000

CP

C55

Free fun from the South Australian Museum

10am-8pm Exciting insect displays.

Information from Energy SA and

Onkaparinga Catchment Water

Management Board.

1pm-6pm Snakes, spiders and reptiles

up close.

Mr Show & Tell discusses flora,

fauna and the environment.

4pm-7pm Recycled materials craft

workshop. (5-12 year olds).

6pm-6:30pm Captain Splash performance

on water and the environment.

ABC Adelaide Live from Centro Colonnades

4pm-6pm Grant Cameron from 891 ABC

airs live for drive.

Centro Colonnades has an

extensive recycling program,

which reduces waste from going to

landfill. Look at the fantastic results

so far:-

Paper & Cardboard - since 1996

over 1300 tonnes recycled.

Plastics - over 16 tonnes diverted

from landfill and recycled Since

July 2000.

BiobiN green organic system -

Since January 2001 over 285 tonnes.

Foam - 220 bales of foam recycled

since the recycling introduction in

January 2004.

✔✔

✔✔

10am-8pm

Free Cottage Mulch

Stop plastic bags from going to landfill and

swap 10 plastic shopping bags for a bag of

Cottage Mulch. The Cottage Mulch is produced

by Peats Soil & Garden Supplies, from the large

volumes of fruit and vegetable waste disposed

of by various retailers and collected in the

BiobiN. All plastic bags exchanged for the

Cottage Mulch will be recycled through Centro

Colonnades’ plastics recycling program.

Colonnades

recycling facts

CPC55 World

Enviro Day P

ress 27/5/0

5 2:18 PM

Page 1

Raising community awareness

through effective advertising

Section 7. Getting ready for the

plastic bag ban

35

Up to 6.9 billion plastic bags are used in Australia annually, 8% in South

Australia, and the majority will end up in landfi ll. Up to 6.01 billion of those

are the single-use bags which will be banned in South Australia.

Plastic bags take 20 to 2000 years to decompose and not only are they ending

up in landfi ll, they’re also fi nding their way into stormwater, rivers and streams

and fl oating out to sea, where they are killing marine creatures and birds.

South Australians have embraced reusable bags when shopping. They are

highly visible in supermarkets, and more and more people are using them.

Zero Waste SA’s market research has found that South Australians accept the

need to stop using single-use plastic bags and consider that once they have

been banned, shoppers and retailers will quickly adapt.

What you can do

■ Don’t stockpile a large volume of single use plastic bags – you will not be

able to use them from the end of 2008.

■ Offer reusable bag options with your logo printed for sale to customers,

such as recycled paper, calico, polypropylene (green bags). A list of suppliers

providing an alternative to plastic bags can be found on Zero Waste SA’s

website at www.zerowaste.sa.gov.au/pdf/plastic_bag_alternatives.pdf.

Also check out:

■ Planet Ark at: www.planetark.com/campaignspage.cfm/newsid/59/

newsDate/7/story.htm

■ KESAB environmental solutions at

www.kesab.asn.au/betterbag/index.htm

■ In the lead up to the banning of the bags, train staff to ask customers

‘Do you need a bag?’ with their purchase and to pack an appropriate

amount of items in each bag.

■ Begin a plastic bag reuse system. Display signs reminding customers

to bring their own bags and provide incentives through special

promotional activities.

CASE STUDY

A major promotional highlight has

been Centro Colonnades’ successful

World Environment Day, ‘Swap 10

plastic shopping bag for a bag of

mulch’ promotion. Shoppers are

encouraged to bring along used

plastic bags in exchange for a bag

of Cottage Mulch, produced through

the centre’s BiobiN organic storage/

collection system. A great example

of the recycle loop. Over 5000

plastic shopping bags are recycled

through the centre’s plastic recycling

system each promotion, and over

the past 3 years that’s over 18 000

recycled plastic bags.

Businesses should start planning now in the expectation that single use plastic bags will be

banned from South Australia by the end of 2008.

A successful waste reduction program will provide a variety

of benefits that, if managed effectively, will reduce costs

while reducing the environmental impact of centres.

Shopping centres that take the environmental management initiative can

be rewarded by retaining self regulation as well as building relationships

among and gaining greater respect from retailers, staff and customers.

By taking this fi rst initiative in improving environmental performance, a

shopping centre will be in a position to better understand its business

and future trends in technology. It will also be well positioned to grab

marketing opportunities in an increasingly demanding and critical

marketplace.

Section 8.Conclusion

36

3737

Appendix

Form 1. Example survey of retailers

Form 2. Waste management and recycling audit form

Form 3. Example shopping centre green action plan

Form 4. Green checklist for retailers and offi ces

Form 5. Green guide for shoppers

Waste Services Directory

38

Form 1.Example survey

of retailers

............................................................... Shopping Centre is looking to introduce a ‘green’ (environmental

improvement) policy and would like your help become more environmentally responsible.

What do you think are the most important environmental issues to focus on in the

shopping centre?

(Please number, in the order of priority, the issues you think should be addressed)

■ Recycling/waste management

■ Conserving energy

■ Environmental purchasing policy

■ Pollution (air, stormwater or odour)

■ Conserving water

■ Other (please specify)

Information to help introduce a green policy

Does your shop/company (please tick either yes or no) Yes No

Recycle paper &/or cardboard, etc?

Have an environmental purchasing policy?

Use recycled products? (if yes, please describe)

Reuse materials discarded through the shopping process?

Use environmentally safe cleaning products?

Use any type of energy saving methods?

Promote the use of alternative shopping bags?

Name...............................................................Date..........................

Business............................................................................................

39

Form 1.Example survey

of retailers

Do you have any other ideas for a green policy?

If you have any suggestions for environmental improvements for our shopping centre, please let centre management

know or write them in the space below.

It could be ways your business could contribute to helping our environment

or

ways that your business is already helping the environment in our shopping centre.

If you would like to know more about what is happening, or become more involved in a green action group, please

contact ................................................... in centre management (phone no: ...............................).

Ideas and suggestions please

40

Waste element Notes on current situation

Paper & cardboard

Offi ce systemsphotocopy papertoilet paper promotional info

Plastics

Cans, glass, bottles etc

Cigarette butts

Compostible material garden wastegreengrocers’ materials

Other, e.g. toxic, hazardous Chemicals used by cleanersdry cleanersphoto shopsother

Grease and fats

Foam coffee/tea cupsgreengrocer cartons/boxes

Resources use form

Energy

Lighting internal external

Water use

Internaltoilets other

External garden use other

Stormwater systems

Drains car parking areas loading docks/bays, etc

Other

Form 2. Waste management and

recycling audit form

41

Area of operation Current situation Required outcome Responsibility Time frame

Green policy process

• Arrange retailer survey Unaware of retailer interest Respond to retailers with results

• Initiate green action group Coordinated by centre

management/ consultant

Involve retailers in green action

group

Irregular meetings Meet monthly to develop green

policy

Waste management

and recycling

• Waste audit No audit in place Finalise audit

• Paper & cardboard No system in place with

waste contractor

Increase on monthly tonnages

• Offi ce systems Part systems in place incl

use of recycled paper for

photocopying, toilet paper

and promotional brochures

Establish effective systems

• Plastics Disposed of through waste

stream

Separate and recycle where

possible

• Cans, glass, bottles etc No system in place Arrange collection by local recyclers

Funds to local environmental groups

and/or scouts

• Compostible material

Garden waste

Greengrocers’ materials

System in place

No system in place

Mulched & composted by gardeners

Green organics to be separated

& deposited in in-vessel organic

storage/collection container

• Other, e.g. toxic,

hazardous

No systems in place for

chemicals from majors,

dry cleaners, photo

processors

Hazardous waste plan in place

• Grease arrestors Emptied each 3 months Maintain current agreement

• Foam cups No system in place Collect for reuse by local

environmental group

• Greengrocer cartons/

boxes

No system in place Encourage similar retailers to

recycle

• Fluoro tube lights No system in place Meet with council to arrange system

Stormwater pollution

prevention

• Stormwater drains Already arranged:

Plan of drain positions

through council

Maintain updated drain plan Ongoing

Audit of drain positions Finalise audit Ongoing

Drain maintenance

program

Clean drainage systems

Drain waste collection

basket installation

Clean drainage systems

Form 3. Sample shopping centre

green

action plan

42

Area of operation Current situation Required outcome Responsibility Time frame

• Bio cleaning products No policy in place Centre’s cleaners use bio

products

• Educate retailers/ community No program in place Raise awareness of need for

clean drains

Water and energy conservation

• Water conservation Already arranged: Ongoing

Water audit through SA

Water

Reduced water use

Water saving devices

installed e.g. in toilets

Water saving devices installed

e.g. in toilets

Regular inspections water

equipment/ systems

Reduced water use

• Educate retailers/ community No program in place Raise awareness of need to

save water

• Energy conservation Already arranged:

Energy audit through

Energy SA

Reduced energy use

Energy saving devices

installed

Reduced energy use

Regular inspections of

energy equipment

Reduced energy use Ongoing

• Educate retailers/ community No program in place Raise awareness of need to

save energy

Marketing

Promotions

Educate retailers/community

• Initiate ‘green news’ incentre

newsletter and promote green

policy

Nothing in place Raise retailer awareness

• Initiate program of activity

development through broad

range of promotions/displays,

etc

No program in place Raise awareness of green policy

• Initiate partnerships for support

with e.g. KESAB, NRM Boards,

Trees for Life, Energy SA,

SA Water

Minimal support from

stakeholders

Involve council, Zero Waste SA,

EPA

• Investigate local press

promotion green policy

development

Advertising involvement Regular ‘green’ tips, etc to

promote

• Initiate community award

program development through

recognition of local school/

community green actions

No program in place Raise awareness of green policy

Form 3. Sample shopping centre

green

action plan

43

This checklist is a guide only. Please modify it to suit conditions at your shop or offi ce. Use it as a starting point for

ideas on making your workplace environmentally friendly and cutting costs.

Task Implemented/comments Date

Staff survey of current workplace practices

Development of a green team (monthly meeting)

Electronic copies of phone directories, white and yellow pages

80–100% recycled paper

80–100% recycled toilet paper and hand towels

Appliances and equipment energy effi cient (4*)

• photocopiers

• fax machines

• fridges

• dishwashers

• microwaves

Energy effi ciency education workshop for staff

• switch off lights

• open blinds

• shut down equipment not used after hours and weekends

• effi cient heating/cooling systems

Timers installed where possible

Computer screen savers

Paper recycling

• individual paper recycling boxes

• centralised paper bins (at photocopier/printer)

• shredder for confi dential docs then recycle

Paper reduction

• reuse paper for notes, drafts and internal memos as scribble pads for

phone messages

• use double-sided photocopying mode

• noticeboards or meetings for information

• email messages and information

• replace thermal fax machines with plain paper fax

Energy effi cient lighting

Co-mingled recycling of plastic, glass, steel cans, aluminium and milk

cartons

List of preferred environmentally friendly products for purchasing

Disposable cups, plates and cutlery phased out

Form 4. Green checklist for retailers

and offices

44

Form 4. Green checklist for retailers

and offices

Task Implemented/comments Date

Photocopier

• rapid start from cold

• standby mode

• duplexing option

• ability to use recycled paper

Worm farm or composting system

Old electrical and computer goods recycled

AA or AAA water effi cient devices installed

• dual fl ush toilets

• water effi cient shower heads

• waterwise gardens

• automatic irrigation systems

Workplace TravelSmart

• carpooling

• use of public transport

• facilities for bike riders

• using email, telephone and video conferencing as an alternative to travel

• make car fl eets available during work hours

Audits (monitor and report on progress to centre management)

Audit paper recycling

Audit energy consumption

Type and quantity of waste produced in the workplace

Audit water use

Regular inspections and maintenance of water and energy equipment

Policies and contracts

Set environmental targets

Cleaning contracts include paper collection (including cardboard and phone books)

Organise recycling into cleaning contracts

Purchasing policy – recycled content products where possible

45

Doing more by choosing less

This green shopping guide can help you limit your impact on the environment and save you money as well.

Did you know that we are quickly running out of space in Australia to place landfi ll and other waste sites? Did you know that

every day each person in Australia generates about 2 kilograms of waste?

Even though we are recycling (keep up the good work) it’s still not enough. With a little more effort we can reduce waste even

more. Please think before you buy and buy only what you need, and help conserve resources while you shop. About one-third

of our household waste comes from product packaging.

Here are some ways you can help.

Packaging

Packaging is now one of the biggest industries in Australia. Some packaging is necessary for health and shelf life reasons but

excess packaging costs you more money.

Take a little care before you buy and you can save money. Next time you go shopping, check out products on the shelf:

choose those with the least packaging. Try to avoid single use or overly wrapped items.

Choose to put less packaging in your ‘green’ shopping trolley. Think a little to leave a lot less behind for future generations.

Recycled products

When shopping, always try to choose recycled products. Fewer natural resources and less energy are needed to make

recycled products. So, when you buy recycled products, you’re helping to conserve our limited resources.

Check the label before making your purchase. Make a point of buying products that have the familiar three arrow logo. One

way to check out if certain products are made from recycled material is the colour of the unprinted side – if it’s grey and not

white, it’s recycled. Some products are marketed as being recyclable; that means that they can be recycled.

Reusable not disposable

Disposable products may be convenient but they also create more waste and add to already overcrowded landfi ll sites. Try to

limit your use of disposables and look for products you can reuse.

Examples: a sponge not throwaway wipes, rechargeable batteries, washable plates and cups not one use paper plates and

cups, cloth napkins not disposable ones, razors with replaceable blades, not disposables, and reduce or eliminate the use of

disposable lighters and non-refi llable pens.

Look out for reusable or refi llable containers: buy spaghetti sauce in a glass jar, then reuse or recycle the jar; reuse different

sized plastic containers with lids, instead of buying aluminium foil, plastic bags or plastic wrap.

Buy in bulk

Buying in bulk not only uses less packaging, it also saves you money. Try to limit the use of over-wrapped, single serve

packages. A tiny inconvenience is a big help to the environment.

Buy concentrates such as drink mixes, cleaners and biodegradable cleaners; buy the biggest possible and practical container

of non-perishable items or those with a long shelf life, and put manageable amounts in reusable, smaller containers for

everyday use.


46

Paper or plastic

Take along your own reusable shopping bags when shopping, instead of using paper or plastic bags. Canvas, calico or string

bags are light and convenient to carry and can be reused many times. Get into the habit of keeping reusable bags in the car or

near the front door – and save an incredible amount of paper and plastic.

If you’re only buying one or two items, go without a bag. Every bag costs the store money – that means you pay for it ... and

so does the environment.

You can make a difference

If you see a product that’s over packaged, that’s not made from recycled materials, tell the store manager or write to the

manufacturer. Your preferences are important to them and your opinion counts. So take a minute to write a note. The address

can often be found on the back of the package. Your efforts won’t go to waste.

A few more helpful ‘green’ shopping tips

■ Try not to overbuy, always plan your shopping list

■ Buy products that can be recycled or are made from recycled materials

■ Avoid over packaged goods

■ Buy bulk instead of single use packages

■ Reuse

Household and beauty

■ Choose pump instead of aerosol

■ Buy concentrates and biodegradables

■ Buy refi llables

■ Avoid paper cups and plates

■ Buy paper products with high recycled material content

■ Avoid pump toothpastes (tubes use three times less plastic)

■ Avoid squeezable plastic bottles (often have much higher plastic content, not easily recyclable)

Dairy

■ Buy milk in recyclable large containers

■ Avoid single servings

■ Avoid eggs in polystyrene cartons unless they are recyclable

■ Buy juices in concentrate or recyclable large containers

Produce

■ Tell your grocer you won’t buy produce that’s over wrapped in plastic and polystyrene

■ Avoid using an extra plastic bag for fruit and vegetables in their own natural ‘packaging’. Wash or peel them when

you get home

Californian Integrated Waste Management Board and the Lower Great Southern Regional Recycling Committee, Albany WA,

gave permission to reproduce elements of this guide.


47


Dealing with a shopping centre’s waste streams

A shopping centre can generate a broad range of elements that make up the waste stream.

To assist managers to deal with the reduction of waste, the following guide is designed to assist in minimising specifi c

waste to landfi ll and the recycling of materials, which will ultimately reduce costs to the centre.

The organisations listed are able to offer a service to enable a positive outcome for shopping centre managers. Zero

Waste SA’s website www.zerowaste.sa.gov.au has a guide to recycling organisations as does the Yellow Pages.

CARDBOARD AND PAPER

Amcor Recycling

142-146 Churchill Rd

DRY CREEK SA 5094

Phone: 8260 1133

www.amcor.com

SITA

PO Box 309

ENFIELD PLAZA SA 5085

Phone: 13 13 35

www.sita.com.au

Visy Recycling

1 Oceansteamers Rd

PORT ADELAIDE SA 5015

Phone: 8368 0406

www.visy.com.au

Cleanaway

3-7 Francis Street

PORT ADELAIDE SA 5015

Phone: 13 13 39

www.biscleanaway.com

Remove All

12 Angle Vale Cres.

BURTON SA 5110

Phone: 08 8280 8033

[email protected]

www.removall.com.au

Veolia (formerly Collex)

500 Churchill Rd

KILBURN SA 5084

Phone: 8260 2122

www.veolia.com.au

PLASTICS

Amcor Recycling

142-146 Churchill Rd

DRY CREEK SA 5094

Phone: 8260 1133

www.amcor.com

Envirologix

PO Box 1157

GOLDEN GROVE SA 5125

Phone: 1300 384 320

SITA

PO Box 309


Phone: 13 13 35

www.sita.com.au

Veolia (formerly Collex)

500 Churchill Rd

KILBURN SA 5084

Phone: 08 8260 2122

www.veolia.com.au

Remove All

12 Angle Vale Cres.

BURTON SA 5110

Phone: 08 8280 8033

[email protected]

www.removall.com.au

FLURO TUBES

SITA

PO Box 309


Phone: 13 13 35

www.sita.com.au

Chemsal Pty Ltd

83 Dohertys Road

LAVERTON NORTH VIC 3026

Phone: 03 9369 4222

[email protected]

www.chemsal.com.au

48


FOAM/POLYSTYRENE

Envirologix

PO Box 1157

GOLDEN GROVE SA 5125

Phone: 1300 384 320

ORGANIC MATERIALS

Peats Soil and Garden Supplies

Biobin System

Including vegetable, fruit, bread

and food matter

PO Box 66

WILLUNGA SA 5172

Phone: 08 8556 5295

www.peatssoil.com.au

Van Schaik’s Bio Gro Pty Ltd

194 Jubilee Highway East

MOUNT GAMBIER SA 5290

Phone: 08 8724 5555

www.biogro.com.au

Jeffries

412 Hanson Road North

WINGFIELD SA 5013

Phone: 8349 5588

www.jeffriesgroup.com.au

DEPOSIT CONTAINERS

Cans, glass, milk and juice cartons,

etc. Various recyclers – refer your

local council.

NON DEPOSIT CONTAINERS

Including food and beverage glass

Refer to waste managers as paper

and cardboard recycling

COOKING OIL

As per paper and cardboard

FERROUS METALS INCLUDING

STEEL CANS

As per paper and cardboard

PRINTER AND TONER

CARTRIDGES

SITA

PO Box 309


Phone: 13 13 35

www.sita.com.au

CORKS

Guides SA

278 South Tce

ADELAIDE SA 5000

Phone: 8418 0900

www.guidessa.org.au

OTHER, INCLUDING WASTE

GENERATED FROM SHOP REFITS

ResourceCO

PO Box 542

WINGFIELD SA 5085

Phone: 8347 3329

www.resourceco.com.au

PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER

Documents

Waste management and reduction guide for retail · PDF fileWaste management and reduction Zero Waste SA guide for the retail industry