When it comes to waste management, we look to prevent or reduce waste generation wherever possible so that there is less impact on the environment. We also reuse, recycle and find value adding uses for our waste. This helps us to minimise the amount of waste we generate whether it be solids, liquids or the natural resources we use.
Essentially, we believe in the three 'Rs':
Disposal of waste to landfill sites is always our last resort which is why we continue to recycle, reuse or value-add more than 99% of the solid waste materials we generate. We do this by:
- Eliminating wastes by investing in new technology
- Initiating cleaner production programs involving continuous improvement of systems and employee involvement
- Recycling materials such as aluminium, scrap metal, glass, PET, cardboard, paper, plastic scrap and photocopier and printer toner cartridges
- Returning materials such as kegs, timber pallets, metal and plastic drums, plastic trays and cardboard cartons to suppliers and our business units for re-use
- Obtaining value from the by-products we produce. Extracted brewer’s grains and hops are used for animal feed, excess yeast is used for Vegemite production and material from our beer filters, which is rich in nutrients, is used as a compost for enriching the soil
- Purchasing materials in bulk containers rather than bags or small drums
The results of our efforts have been dramatic.
More detail on the results of our efforts can be viewed under Waste Reduction Case Studies.