We are so glad you are reading this. The Switch is dedicated to sustainable solutions and making a positive impact for the next generation. BUT we can't do it without you so we hope this article helps you to make the right choices.
Rubbish (also known as garbage and trash) is a huge problem all over the world so The Switch is very keen to do their bit to make this less of a problem.
Bin chutes and your daily rubbish (Adelaide, Melbourne and Perth)
In these cities we have bin chutes on each level so you can dispose of your recycling and non recycling rubbish. Australia has a great national recycling program so we hope you can support this by learning a bit about it.
Below is what the bin chute on your apartment level may look like (they may vary pending on which property your are living in).
When you move in, we encourage you to walk around your level and find the bin chute closest to your apartment. They are usually behind a door but they are clearly labeled.
Here are some important tips to know about the bin chutes:
Items must be bagged & securely tied in order to prevent spillage that may dirty the rubbish room. Note - The staff are handling your rubbish at the bottom of the chute so this is for their wellbeing too!
Large trash bags & boxes must not be put down the chute as it could block it.
Separate your recycling from general waste, and look after the world we live in.
Loose items must not be disposed off in the chute.
Large items that don't easily fit in the chute must not be put in.
Items must not be left on the floor of the chute room as it can attract pests & emit a bad smell.
Designated bin room (Sydney Kensington)
Our Sydney Kensington building is a beautifully built low rise property with only 3 levels on the ground. The bin room is located adjacent to reception office/gym on the ground level where you are required to bring your rubbish and recycle items and put in the correct bins. For general rubbish please ensure you put them in a bag and tie it up before disposal.
Our team in Sydney can assist you if you have any questions.
Recycling in Australia
You SHOULD recycle these items:
Drink cans, food cans, empty aerosol cans & clean aluminum foil or trays.
Glass bottles & jars (rinsed and lids off)
Paper & cardboard (newspapers, magazines, junk mail, envelopes, egg cartons, flattened boxes)
Pizza boxes (without food)
All rigid plastic containers (plastic drink bottles, yoghurt, ice-cream and margarine tubs, detergent bottles – rinsed and lids off)
DO NOT recycle these items:
X Plastic bags
X Cling film
X Polystyrene Foam
X Food Scraps
X Crockery, pyrex & ceramics
X Fabric and clothing
Disposing other items:
There may be a time where you would like to get rid of some items which are not rubbish or recyclable.
Ask the team member via chat, where the best place is to do this. The property may have a donation box where you could place your item inside and allow someone to use it for their own use.
Office works - are very responsible and ethical with recycling programs for you to access. You can take these items to be recycled in sustainable ways:
E-Waste
Printer and ink cartridges
mobile phones
Batteries
Pens and markers
Data storage
Rebel sport - Help you recycle your footwear
Op Shops are shops where you can donate clothing and they resell it to others. Search for your local op shops on google.
Make some money from your stuff
Officeworks - Trade in your tech for a gift card
Bottles and containers - If your item has a 10c symbol on it, you could get 10 cents back for each bottle you dispose of at a collection point.
There are plenty more ways to make a positive impact for the next generation. The Switch encourages you to search in your area to find a recycling place that best suits you and your items!
Be a Recycling Champion and Change Maker!