Not-for-profit remote store operator Community Enterprise Queensland (CEQ) is proud to announce the launch of its innovative Resource Recovery Project, a recycling initiative across remote communities in the Torres Strait Islands and Cape York Peninsula.
The goal of the project is to prevent cardboard and pallet wrap from ending up in the limited waste disposal facilities of these remote communities, therefore protecting the fragile environments of the Torres Strait Islands and Cape York.
Additionally, it supports a growing focus on environmental sustainability and effective waste management practices.
The project will initially roll out in 14 sites: Nurupai, Warraber, Tamwoy, Iama, Bamaga, Mer, Lockhart River, Mabuiag, Wug, Boigu, Napranum, Kubin, Saibai, and Masig, with a total of 20 sites planned.
The key components of the recycling project are:
- Purpose-built containers: Constructed to store flattened cardboard and bundled pallet wrap, adhering to bio-security standards.
- Strategic placement: Containers will be distributed to IBIS supermarkets and an ABIS store in the Torres Strait and Cape York.
- Efficient collection system: CEQ store teams will manage the collection and preparation of recyclable materials for weekly pickups.
- Transportation and recycling: Sea Swift, a key project partner, will transport the recyclable materials to Cairns. North Queensland Recycling Agents (NQRA) will then process these waste streams into usable products.
This initiative has been made possible through funding from the Regional and Remote Recycling Modernisation Fund, which has provided all the necessary resources for the construction of purpose-built storage containers for recycling. This fund is a joint initiative between the Australian and Queensland Governments. The purpose of the fund is to ensure that regional and remote communities can increase their participation in resource recovery and recycling.
CEQ Chief Executive Officer Michael Dykes said the Resource Recovery Project represents a significant step forward in the organisation’s commitment to sustainable practices.
“Tying in with our vision of caring, every day, always, we see it as our commitment to the communities we service and to care for country,” said Mr Dykes.
“Through collaboration, we have been able to implement a practical solution that addresses waste management challenges in remote communities.
“The support from the Australian and Queensland Governments has been instrumental in bringing this project to life. Working with the Queensland Government to manage this project has also enabled the project to respond to the challenges that these types of projects can face.
“We are also appreciative of Sea Swift’s and NQRA’s commitment to this initiative. Together, we are making a tangible difference in preserving the environment for future generations.
“We are proud to lead this initiative and look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on the environment and the communities we serve.”
CEQ is a not-for-profit organisation responsible for providing goods and essential services to the Torres Strait, Northern Peninsula Area (NPA), mainland Aboriginal remote communities, and Palm Island through its 30 stores.
CEQ manages Islanders Board of Industry and Service (IBIS) and Aboriginal Business, Industry and Service (ABIS) stores, as well as other stores including Col Jones, Mona’s Bazaar and Mitre 10 on Thursday Island.
For more information on CEQ, visit www.ceqld.org.au
