Recycling Near You

Australia's National Recycling Week

Why Recycling Right Matters

By Matt Culic, 14 Nov 2025, VIC

Reading Time: 3mins read

Every November, National Recycling Week reminds Australians that recycling is more than just what we put in the yellow bin. It’s about rethinking how we design, consume, and reuse materials making sure resources stay in use for as long as possible.
Yet, confusion about “what goes where” continues to challenge our efforts. At Circular Futures Group, we believe that recycling right begins with knowledge and a shift from waste thinking to resource thinking.

Person sorting plastic bottles outdoors, wearing a green shirt with a recycling symbol, surrounded by more plastic bottles on a white container.

Common Recycling Myths

If it’s in the recycling bin, it will get recycled.

Not always. Contamination like food waste or mixed materials can send entire batches to landfill. Keep it clean and dry for successful recycling.

All plastics are recyclable.

Only certain plastics (like PET and HDPE) are accepted in most councils. Soft plastics, coffee cups, and multilayer packaging often require specialist facilities

Recycling is the best environmental option.

Recycling is important, but the real win lies higher in the waste hierarchy: reduce, reuse, then recycle. Preventing waste is the most powerful action.

My effort won’t make a difference.

Every correct action matters. One clean container can save a whole truckload from contamination. Collective small changes create a big impact..

Fast Facts About Recycling in Australia

Australians generate over 70 million tonnes of waste each year.

  • Roughly 60% is recovered for reuse or recycling.

  • The National Waste Policy Action Plan targets 80% recovery by 2030.

  • Contamination rates remain high — up to 20% of what goes in yellow bins can still end up in landfill..

A Circular Future Starts With You

At Circular Futures Group, we see recycling as just one part of a bigger circular journey — where design, reuse, and innovation come together to eliminate waste altogether.
Together, we can move from a linear “take-make-dispose” system to one where materials are valued, and nothing truly goes to waste..

Partner with Circular Futures

Partner with Circular Futures Group to develop smarter sustainability strategies for your organisation.

Explore how our circular economy consulting services can help your business close the loop and thrive in a resource-conscious future.

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Partner With Us for Smarter Waste Management 

Get in touch today to discover how Circular Futures Group can help you build a cleaner, safer, and more circular future.

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