We talk with local residents who have embraced environmentally friendly lifestyles and practices, and invited them to give their tips on how you can do the same!

Kayla working with Precious Plastic, Mitcham 

Kayla is a Green Living Champion and co-owner of a local business, Precious Plastic Melbourne, with her husband Piers. 

What does your business do?  

We often refer to ourselves as a 'micro-recycler', but as an overview, we're a circular economy-focused business specialising in turning tricky-to-recycle plastic waste into high-value items! Our other core focus areas include education - which encompasses quite a wide variety of activities and clients, from school incursions through to corporate workshops - and machinery manufacturing. Our small-scale recycling machinery is by far our biggest area of impact, as it allows us to share the knowledge and tools needed to turn plastic waste into new products with our customers. Our recycling equipment is used across Australia (and beyond!) by schools, small businesses, community groups etc.  

Why did you start this type of business and not something else?  

We've always been incredibly passionate about sustainability. As parents, creating an impact in this space allows us to feel like we're doing our small bit for future generations. The other thing we love about what we do is the creativity - we feel lucky to have been able to combine creativity with sustainability and turn it into a very motivating and fulfilling day job!  

What sustainability actions does your business undertake?  

Aside from plastic recycling, sustainable and responsible business practices are an integral part of running a social enterprise. This can include everything from working with our suppliers to minimise upstream waste, to opting for second-hand items in the office and warehouse (think furniture, equipment, appliances), to ensure that we're capturing our own waste by-products and returning them to the material cycle.  

What tips do you have for other businesses that are thinking of becoming more sustainable?  

1. Appoint a team member as your sustainability lead to help drive change. 

2. Start with low-hanging fruit - find a few changes that are simple to make and implement them. It could be as basic as ensuring your recycling practices are up to scratch (does your workplace allow for the separation, collection and recycling of basic recyclables, along with batteries and e-waste). Starting with small, achievable goals should pave the way for longer term success. 

3. Work with your suppliers to minimise upstream waste and capture your own waste by-products and return them to the material cycle.  

4. Buy second-hand items for the office and warehouse for example furniture, equipment and appliances. 

Is there anything else that you wish to share?  

We always like to remind people that it's important not to allow yourself to be overwhelmed when it comes to making sustainable changes. Changing habits takes time, so it's ok to start small. For example, if you're finding your own transition to FOGO to be challenging, focus on nailing that, and learning how to adapt it to suit your lifestyle. And living a minimal waste lifestyle doesn't have to be more expensive - it's not about Pinterest-worthy pantries, matching stainless steel lunch box accessories or throwing out all your old synthetic or unethically-made clothes. We think of it more as the lost art of making do - giving the items you already own the longest useful life-cycle possible, being mindful of your habits as a consumer, and progressively making those small, positive changes to reduce your own footprint on our precious planet.  

Do you know a sustainable business?

We are on the lookout for sustainability-focussed businesses in Whitehorse. Is this you or do you know of one? 

For example, have you: 

• Switched to energy efficient machinery or appliances?

• Use renewable electricity or installed solar panels?

• Streamlined your processes to minimise waste?  

• Achieved a sustainable certification like B Corp?  

• Helped to close the loop by using recycled materials in your products?  

We’d love to share your story to inspire more businesses and residents across Whitehorse. 

Contact us at greenercity@whitehorse.vic.gov.au with your story.