Business and waste reduction resources

A large proportion of the waste disposed of in landfill is generated by the commercial sector. Adopting waste management and reduction principles enables businesses to be resource efficient and minimise waste.

Office waste

Read the Ministry for the Environment’s guide to implementing recycling systems in multi-tenanted office buildings

Eco Choice Aotearoa

Eco Choice Aotearoa (formerly Environmental Choice New Zealand,) is the official environmental label of New Zealand. The programme is government-owned and endorsed but operates independently.

Eco Choice Aotearoa have a "green office" specification. If you think your office is an environmental champion and you would like to be officially recognised for it, take a look at their Green Office certification.

Construction and demolition waste

Construction and demolition waste (often referred to as C&D waste) is a complex waste stream, made up of a mixture of materials, including:

  • concrete
  • plasterboard
  • wood
  • steel
  • brick
  • glass.

C&D waste may represent up to 50 percent of all waste generated in New Zealand, 20 percent of all waste going to landfill, and 80 percent of all waste going to clean fill.

C&D waste contains a range of materials which can be reused and recycled. Making these materials uses significant virgin material and energy, and recycling of materials reduces the impact on the environment.

Resource Efficiency in Building and Related Industries (REBRI) is an initiative providing resources to the construction and demolition industries to

  • reduce waste disposal costs
  • save money on raw materials
  • use materials more effectively
  • reduce the environmental impact from landfill disposal
  • maximise the amount of waste diverted from landfills and cleanfills
  • minimise contamination and damage
  • meet the requirements of the construction or demolition client and the recycling operator.

The BRANZ resource recovery map is a tool which displays resource recovery facility locations for various types of construction and demolition waste. Using this tool allows you to plan your waste drop-off strategically, saving costs and reducing landfill accumulation.

Rubbish and recycling collectors

Sustainable business resources and inspiration

NZ Business Council for Sustainable Development

The Sustainable Business Council provides business leadership as a catalyst for change toward sustainable development.

Sustainable Business Network

The Sustainable Business Network (SBN) is a fantastic forum for businesses that are interested in sustainable development practice, events and networking. They supply online tools and annual national awards for corporate sustainability achievements.

WasteMINZ

WasteMINZ is the largest representative body of the waste and resource recovery sector in New Zealand.

Resource Efficiency in Building and Related Industries (REBRI)

Resource Efficiency in Building and Related Industries (REBRI) is an initiative providing resources to reduce waste disposal costs, save money on raw materials, use materials more effectively and reduce the environmental impact from landfill disposal.

Tourism

Qualmark

When you see a business displaying the Qualmark symbol you can be assured that the business has met stringent quality standards and environmental criteria - earning New Zealand tourism’s official quality mark.

Qualmark’s Responsible Tourism Programme and the associated Enviro awards focus on the environmental and social commitments of accommodation providers, visitor activities, transport and services.