April 5 2022

Plasterboard offcuts go from building waste to farmers' gold!

As much as 2 tonnes of plasterboard offcuts can be generated from the average home build, which often ends up in our landfills.

AlburyCity, Federation Council and North East Bin Hire are partnering to turn over 1,000 tonnes of plasterboard offcuts from building sites in Albury and Mulwala into high quality agricultural additives. Recycled plasterboard has a high gypsum content, highly sought after by farmers as it improves soil structure and pH and is a valuable source of calcium.

AlburyCity Mayor Kylie King said it’s a great example of how recycling can benefit our regional economy.

"We have a high focus on sustainability and educating the community on how we can reduce the waste we are putting into landfill."

"This great project highlights another way we can take what would normally be considered rubbish, and turn it into a high quality product for use by our local farmers," she said.

Federation Council Mayor, Cr Pat Bourke said Council was proud to partner with Albury City and North East Bin Hire in this latest initiative that will have a positive environmental impact.

"This project is another fine example of the great things we can achieve for our environment and local economy when it comes to sustainable waste practices," he said.

Local builders with sites in Albury and Mulwala can organise the collection of plasterboard offcuts by contacting North East Bin Hire.

Plasterboard is also being accepted at the Albury Waste Management Centre and Mulwala Transfer Station at no charge during the pilot program, if the material is separated from other waste. No other contaminants including cement sheeting, fibreboard, asbestos or painted boards can be accepted as part of the recycling.

“We’ve been working with our building company partners to support trades to separate materials like plasterboard,” said Tom Hogan, Owner at North East Bin Hire.

“Working in partnership between builders, councils and recyclers allows us to educate companies and tradies about why they should recycle, and the range of material that can be recycled. We should start to see more builds in the area achieve better environmental and cost savings,” he said.

The pilot project is being funded through a $62,000 grant from the NSW EPA's Circulate, NSW Industrial Ecology Program, a $60,000 contribution from AlburyCity and $26,000 in-kind support from Federation Council.