Written by Deena Haddad
Reduce, reuse, recycle.
Three words you’ve probably heard many times, but how often do you actually take them into consideration? In 2023–24, Australia consumed around 4.0 million tonnes of plastic products and packaging. Shockingly, only 14% of that was recycled. Participating in recycling isn’t just a personal responsibility, it’s a vital step toward creating a cleaner, more sustainable future for everyone. Fortunately, programs like Return and Earn and companies like Banish are making it easier than ever to get involved.
Banish is an Australian brand founded by Lottie Dalziel, an educator, author, and passionate sustainability advocate. Since its launch in 2018, Banish has grown steadily, inspiring more people every day to make environmentally conscious choices. One of their biggest achievements is the BRAD program, which allows everyday items, like bottle top lids, to be recycled and transformed into practical, fun products. These include pens, phone stands, clocks, coasters, carabiners, flash drives, and more.
My experience volunteering with BRAD was incredible. The day starts with a short tutorial on how to sort plastic by number, texture or color. After that, we’re given a large container filled to the brim with donated bottle top lids. The sorting process begins by type and by color and it’s surprisingly satisfying to watch the main container gradually empty as the smaller ones fill up.
While sorting, you get to converse and connect with fellow volunteers, sharing stories about sustainability, lifestyle changes and personal experiences. It’s a genuinely enjoyable and uplifting environment. After a quick morning tea break, we dive back into sorting energised and are more motivated than ever.
Being surrounded by the vibrant colors of the plastic shreds is a powerful reminder that even a few hours of effort can make a meaningful difference. Banish helps make recycling more accessible, whether through their store at Sydney’s Central Station or via their online recycling box service, which you can order for $15 or $30 depending on size. You can use the boxes to recycle a wide range of items including blister packs, bottle tops, aluminum coffee capsules, sunglasses and eyeglasses.
Doing your part for the environment starts with small actions that lead to big change. Recycle, reuse, and respect the planet.
Charlie blog is a SSAF funded initiative.
