Leading the way to sustainability

THE Coffs Coast continues to lead the way in the sustainability stakes and we've been recognised with top gongs from the State Government.

THE Coffs Coast continues to lead the way in the sustainability stakes and we’ve been recognised with top gongs from the State Government.

Handybin Waste Services was one of only seven regional businesses in NSW to pick up a bronze award in the NSW Sustainability Advantage program.

Environment Minister Robyn Parker presented the awards at a World Environment Day bash and other regional businesses awarded a bronze level partnership were Coffs Harbour’s Pet Porpoise Pool and the Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter based at Lismore.

“These businesses have introduced initiatives that have reduced their environmental impact while also slashing their costs – it is a win for the environment and a win for the businesses involved,” Ms Parker said.

“This is about introducing practical changes today that create sustainability for tomorrow and help businesses reduce their costs.”

The businesses that were recognised at the awards have saved $23.8 million, including 2.2 billion litres of water and 45,000 tonnes of waste.

Handybin Waste Services achieved bronze level through a number of resource efficiency measures and the building of the Coffs Coast Glass Processing facility which has diverted almost three million kilos of glass fines from landfill since July last year.

“Becoming a bronze partner in the Sustainable Advantage program has helped us improve our environmental performance across a range of operations,” said Darryn Westman, the environment manager for Handybin Waste Services.

“We have been able to reduce our environmental impact and make cost savings at the same time and that’s good for our community, our business and our customers.

“The fact that Coffs Harbour was the only regional area that had two businesses being awarded a bronze award is something to be proud of.

“We also congratulate the Pet Porpoise Pool on their achievement.”

For information on how you can reduce your environmental impact through recycling contact Handybin Waste Services on 6652 1733 or go to http://www.handybinwaste.com.au.

For more information about the NSW Sustainability Advantage program visit www.environment.nsw.gov.au/sustainbus.

Originally published as Leading the way to sustainability