The Earthcare Recycling initiative developed out of a pilot project funded through the Waste Authority for the Vale project near Ellenbrook in 2008. The results of the pilot project provided the viability of recycling of builders’ waste, with a focus on ‘at source separation’ but there were significant behavioural change aspects that required addressing.
ECR achieved additional funding for the next phase which encompassed life cycle analysis and logistics modelling, which again proved the viability of the initiative and the significant benefits to the environment, the economy and a reduction in the amount of waste going to landfill.
In order to take the initiative to the next level, ECR merged their concept with a company called XEarth, who had the infrastructure and assets that were necessary for operations. Importantly the owner of that business, Tim Radley, was already developing his recycling model for the waste generated in new home construction. Combining the skills and assets of the two organisations, created an entity and a business model that was unique. Unfortunately in those days, the waste levy for removing material to landfill was very low at only $8 per tonne, consequently, there were no financial benefits for the builders or developers to recycle.
Fortunately, there were two organisations who were able to foresee the future and the necessity to both recycle, reuse and minimise the waste material from new home construction.