The Benefits of Recycling Materials over Virgin Materials in Australian Manufacturing

Australia, like many developed nations, is facing increasing pressure to improve its environmental footprint, manage waste sustainably, and reduce carbon emissions. A critical component of this effort is the shift from using virgin materials to recycled materials in manufacturing processes. This document outlines the technical, environmental, and economic benefits of recycling materials in the Australian market and presents a case for increased adoption across industries.

Overview of Material Use in Australian Manufacturing

Australia is a resource-rich country, but the extraction and processing of virgin materials such as metals, plastics, and paper come with significant environmental and financial costs. As of 2023:

• Australia generates over 74 million tonnes of waste annually.
• Only about 60% of this waste is recovered, with the rest going to landfill.
• The manufacturing sector contributes significantly to national greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs), largely through resource extraction and processing.

Technical Benefits of Recycled Materials Usage

Reduced Energy Consumption

• Recycled Aluminium: Uses 95% less energy compared to virgin production.
• Recycled Plastics: Can save up to 88% of the energy compared to producing virgin plastic.
• Recycled Steel: Energy savings range from 60% to 74%.

Reduced Water Usage

The process of recycling materials typically consume significantly less water than virgin material processing, particularly in metal and paper production.

Improved Material Efficiency

Advanced sorting and reprocessing technologies allow for high-quality recycled inputs that match or exceed the performance of virgin materials in many applications.

Environmental Benefits

Lower Greenhouse Gas Emissions

• Recycling metals, plastics, and paper leads to substantial reductions in CO₂ emissions.
• For example, recycling one tonne of paper saves over 3 tonnes of CO₂ equivalents, and using  refuse derived fuel (RDF) in place of landfilling can save up to 1 tonne of CO₂ equivalents per tonne of waste.

Landfill Diversion

• Reduces the burden on landfills and extends their operational life.
• Minimises soil and groundwater contamination from leachates.

Conservation of Natural Resources

• Reduces the need for mining, logging, and drilling, preserving biodiversity and natural landscapes.
• Less disruption to ecosystems and communities.

Economic Benefits

Job Creation

• The Australian  commercial waste management industry employs over 50,000 people and supports local economies, particularly in regional areas.
• Jobs in recycling tend to be more labour-intensive than those in landfill operations, creating more employment opportunities per tonne of waste.

Cost Savings in Manufacturing

• Lower energy and water usage reduce operational costs.
• Recycled materials can be more cost-effective than virgin alternatives, especially with rising raw material prices.

Support for a Circular Economy

• Recycling supports domestic supply chains and reduces reliance on imports of raw materials.
• Enhances Australia’s resilience to global market disruptions and supports sustainable growth.

Policy and Market Drivers in Australia

• National Waste Policy Action Plan (2019): Targets a 20% increase in resource recovery by 2030.
• Product Stewardship Act 2011: Encourages manufacturers to take greater responsibility for the lifecycle of their products.
• Recycling Modernisation Fund: Over $190 million invested to support recycling infrastructure and innovation.

Positive Outcomes of Recycling in Australia

Conclusion

In the Australian context, recycling offers clear technical, environmental, and economic advantages over the use of virgin materials. With strong government support, growing consumer demand for sustainability, and advancing technologies, now is the ideal time for manufacturers to transition to recycled inputs. This shift not only contributes to national and global environmental goals but also creates long-term value for businesses and communities alike.