The recent Ignite Mini events hosted by Regional Development Australia Mid North Coast, highlighted the growing importance of the Circular Economy in waste management and sustainable practices. Hosted by Ash Sambrooks from the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, the session focused on the increasing opportunities for businesses and communities across New South Wales to integrate circular economy principles into their operations.
A standout presentation came from Lilli King of The Norfolk Wave initiative, which has been driving real-world circular economy success on Norfolk Island. The initiative’s focus on waste reduction, recycling, and community empowerment is setting an example for others to follow. Norfolk Wave aims to achieve an 80% recycling rate by 2025, and significant strides have already been made. The initiative has made remarkable progress in recycling glass, composting organic waste, and repurposing plastic materials for concrete production, contributing to a more sustainable future for the community.
The session demonstrated that by adopting circular economy principles, businesses can not only reduce their environmental footprint but also create new opportunities for growth and community engagement. As the conversation around sustainable practices continues to gain momentum, initiatives like The Norfolk Wave are proving that real, impactful change is within reach, paving the way for a more sustainable future in waste management.