Anything with a plug or battery can be used at Ipswich’s new recycling operation Substation 66.
Within a cavernous workshop on TAFE South West’s Bundamba campus is an operation hungry for e-waste.
It devours anything with a plug or battery, and it takes a constant stream of electronics and appliances to keep up with its insatiable appetite.
It’s been less than two months since Help Enterprises launched Substation 66 through its Disability Care division, but already they have diminished their e-waste stocks and are eager for obsolete or unwanted items from residents and businesses.
There is a dual purpose for Substation 66; the environmental benefits of recycling e-waste otherwise destined for landfill, and to provide training and work skills and give local schools an opportunity for work experience.
Substation 66 has been guided and inspired by the work done at Logan’s Substation 33, which YFS launched in 2013 as an e-waste recycling centre but has grown to include an Innovation Lab for up-cycling and e-waste diversion from landfill.
Piles of light metal from the recycling process at Substation 66
Lines of sewing machines ready to be donated to community groups
Taking apart a mobile phone to recycle components
When you walk into Substation 66 it’s the quiet that amazes Help Enterprises client engagement manager Martin Elliott.
The students and Help clients are so focused on dismantling electronic items that there is little noise for the amount of activity in the workshop.
“They love it, taking things apart,” Mr Elliott said.
Substation 66 was set up in conjunction with Redbank Plains State High School, which had taken students to Logan to participate at Substation 33.
Having a similar facility open in Ipswich creates a greater opportunity for students. Up to seven Redbank Plains Year 10, 11 and 12 students spend time at Substation 66 over two days per week.
As well as gaining valuable job-ready experience, teachers have seen great social benefits. One particular student has “absolutely flourished”. He wasn’t engaged in the classroom, but through Substation 33 and now Substation 66, he has become a leader and shares with the other students what to do.
Other Ipswich schools are coming on board, joining with Help Enterprise clients, as the work at Substation 66 gathers momentum.
Help Enterprises client engagement manager Martin Elliott
What is e-waste
Electronic waste includes computers, monitors, office equipment, televisions, household appliances and obselete or unwanted electronic equipment.
Electronic waste is responsible for 70 per cent of the toxic chemicals such as lead, cadmium and mercury found in landfill. It is also being sent to landfill at three times the rate of general waste.
Different industries can re-use components. At Logan’s Substation 33 they have used e-waste to develop products such as solar-powered batteries for electric bikes, 3D printer filaments and flood road warning signs.
Donate your e-waste
Substation 66 is eager for Ipswich residents and businesses to donate obsolete or unwanted electronic items.
Donations can be made to Redbank Plains State High School Special Education Program.
A pick-up service can be organised for larger items. Call 3432 1268 to arrange a collection.
Businesses who would like to donate electronic items can also contact Martin Elliott on 0434 687 086 or by email [email protected]
4.5
5