Leading Australian experts from the business industry in NSW and government put a spotlight on industrial waste reduction in the building sector at a recent circular economy event held in Western Sydney last week.
The Building the Future with Circular Solutions event explored the opportunities and challenges of meeting the needs of a growing region as it transitions towards a circular economy.
Regional Development Australia (RDA) Sydney, in partnership with Penrith City Council, delivered a comprehensive program to a full house at the St Mary’s Rugby Leagues Club on 22 August 2023, with more than 120 event registrations.
Attendees were presented with several case studies showcasing innovative ideas and products, presentations from businesses already adopting circular economy solutions, and an industry led panel discussion.
Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen opened the event highlighting that Western Sydney is well-positioned to be innovative and drive change through the circular economy, backed by an unprecedented jump in investment from businesses.
“We are seeing industry, business and government redefining resource recovery – what was once rubbish are now resources that can be recycled, reused, remanufactured and reimagined,” Cr Hitchen said.
“We can deliver better economic, environmental and social outcomes; it takes innovation and a shift in thinking and operating, with collaboration the key.”
Kylie Hargreaves, RDA Sydney Deputy Chair, and Chief Sustainability Officer, National Intermodal, conveyed to the audience how important it is for the construction sector to rethink its approach to waste.
“It is abundantly clear that the old linear approach of take, make and dispose, simply cannot continue.”
“Instead, we must reduce our initial demand for resources and then re-use, re-purpose or recycle those same resources as many times as possible.
“Building the Future with Circular Solutions was a perfect fit, and it was great to hear from both policymakers and solution providers as to how we can achieve our ambitions together,” Mrs Hargreaves said.
Throughout the day the event explored the challenges and opportunities facing the construction sector. Speakers included Lisa McLean, CEO of Circular Australia, Jaine Morris, COO of Coreo, and representatives from Boomerang Labs, saveBOARD, CRDC Global and BINGO Industries.
Following the event, Penrith City Council launched its online Circular Economy Hub, featuring speaker presentations, case studies, videos and useful links and resources. Click here to access now: https://www.penrithcity.nsw.gov.au/waste-environment/sustainability/circular-economy/penrith-circular-economy-hub
For more information on industry events and opportunities, please contact RDA Sydney at info@rdasydney.org.au
