Australian businesses are finding new ways to keep resources in use for longer.
At the Built Environment Innovation Showcase, government and industry came together to explore practical solutions for a more circular construction section.
The event showcased how Australian businesses are turning waste into valuable products. Industry providers are extending the life of materials and finding new uses for existing resources.
Construction is a priority sector under Australia's Circular Economy Framework. It has significant opportunities to:
- reduce waste
- lower emissions
- improve the use of materials across the building lifecycle
- strengthen supply chain resilience.
Circular solutions in action
The showcase featured 3 businesses putting circular economy ideas into action.
RecycleAll
RecycleAll provides an alternative to traditional skip bins.
The company collects plastic materials so they can be reused.
Damien from RecycleAll said the company is helping keep valuable materials out of landfill.
"Materials are collected as resources, they're not waste."
Crafted Hardwoods
Crafted Hardwoods is finding new uses for Australian timber that might otherwise go to waste.
The company turns lower-grade timber into high-quality hardwood that can be used for building applications.
Geoffrey from Crafted Hardwoods said innovation should lead to better outcomes.
"Innovation only means something if it's in service of a better outcome, for the industry, for the environment, for all of us."
saveBOARD
saveBOARD transforms difficult-to-recycle packaging waste into building products.
Its products show how recycled materials can be given a new life in construction.
Paul from saveBOARD said affordability remains a key factor in demand.
"People might say the right things, but when it comes to sustainability, price is always a key driver."
Working together for a more circular economy
The showcase highlighted how government and industry can work together to support a more circular economy.
Businesses are creating new products and finding better ways to keep resources for longer.
We are committed to working with industry to support innovation and reduce waste across Australia.
