Every year, thousands of household items that could be recycled end up in landfill, contributing to environmental harm. A new trial program aims to change that, with community recycling hubs now open at Chermside Library and Downfall Creek Bushland Centre to collect materials often overlooked in regular recycling bins.
The Community Recycling Hubs allow locals to drop off items that typically cannot be recycled in household bins, such as blister packs, CDs, DVDs, cosmetic packaging, and small e-waste. This initiative is part of a broader effort to reduce landfill waste and provide accessible recycling options in Brisbane suburbs.
A New Recycling Trial for Chermside Locals
The new recycling hubs at Chermside Library and Downfall Creek Bushland Centre in Chermside West are part of a pilot project introduced in Brisbane. The trial aims to measure ease of use, collection volume, and recycling feasibility for a range of household waste materials. If successful, this program could expand to more locations across the city.
With over 50 Council-operated community recycling hubs already available across Brisbane, these trial locations offer an enhanced drop-off experience for residents. Unlike standard recycling hubs, which accept limited materials, these trial sites accommodate multiple household items, making it easier for residents to dispose of everyday waste responsibly.
What Can Be Recycled?
Each trial hub accepts different materials, so residents are encouraged to check the Council website or on-site signage before dropping off items. Commonly accepted materials include:
- Blister packs, which will undergo mechanical separation to extract aluminium and plastic.
- CDs and DVDs, which will be broken down for plastic recycling.
- Cosmetic packaging, sorted into plastics, metals, and glass before being repurposed into building materials.
- Small e-waste, such as cables and accessories, processed for metal and hard plastic recovery.
- Mobile phones, which will have components extracted, including glass, aluminium, and valuable metals.
- X-ray films, chemically processed to recover silver and plastic.
The program ensures these materials do not end up in landfills, where they could take decades to decompose. Instead, they are sent to specialist recycling partners for repurposing into new products.
How to Use the Recycling Hubs
Residents can collect their recyclable items at home and bring them to the Chermside Library or Downfall Creek Bushland Centre. Items must be clean and empty, and only household quantities are allowed, with a maximum of 20 items per category per visit. Items should be placed in the correct designated bins, ensuring efficient sorting and recycling.
What If the Hub Doesn’t Accept Certain Items?
For items that are not accepted at the trial locations, such as vapes and e-cigarettes, Brisbane residents can visit Council resource recovery centres for proper disposal. Additionally, many retailers offer special recycling programs for products like batteries, ink cartridges, toys, and gardening tools.
Residents can also check the Brisbane Bin and Recycling App, Planet Ark Recycling Near You, or the Recycle Mate website for more drop-off points and recycling solutions.
Published 24-February-2025