Creating Impact Winner: UNSW Sydney

Trifecta success for innovative battery recycling project

UNSW Sustainability battery recycling program is an innovative and extremely successful community based recycling solution which diverts approximately one tonne of potentially toxic waste batteries away from landfill every year. As a significant portion of these batteries are directed into on-campus battery recycling research; this program is contributing not only to better waste management but to advances in battery recycling, with significant benefits well beyond the University. This project highlights the important role UNSW Sydney plays in building a sustainable community and validates our commitment to a global impact through world leading research, thought leadership and exemplary education.

“For UNSW, a Green Gown Award is recognition of our University’s commitment to the practical action on sustainability, as well as community collaboration on environmental initiatives. UNSW Sustainability’s community-based recycling solution provides opportunities for UNSW students, staff and the community to work together on a local recycling solution. Staff, students and researchers have volunteered their time and energy in making this community-based battery recycling solution a wonderful success. This award from the Australasian Campuses Toward Sustainability is an important acknowledgement of the important role UNSW Sydney plays in building a sustainable community and will validate our commitment of a global impact through world leading research, thought leadership and exemplary education.”
Professor Ian Jacobs, President and Vice-Chancellor

Top 3 learnings:

1. Aim big but start small; perfect your systems, services and infrastructure as you expand.
2. Communicate regularly with volunteers, celebrate achievements and be always ready to provide support.
3. Think outside the box with innovation in using resources, and taking advantage of available systems and services.

Videos

• Video #1 (click to hide)