University joins forces to tackle e-waste

Konica Minolta Australia, Macquarie University, and the Australia and New Zealand Recycling Platform’s (ANZRP) TechCollect have partnered to launch the Rethink e-recycling Drive, a community initiative aimed at reducing landfill and giving unwanted technology a second life.

The initiative includes two free community drop-off events and a week-long e-waste collection at Macquarie University, providing accessible ways for the local community to recycle their old electronics responsibly.

“Electronic waste is one of the fastest-growing waste streams in the world, and initiatives like this play an important role in keeping valuable materials out of landfill,” said Andrew Bywaters, Senior Manager Facilities, Quality & Environment, Konica Minolta Australia. “At Konica Minolta Australia, sustainability and environmental responsibility are at the heart of how we operate. Partnering with Macquarie University and ANZRP lets us make e-waste recycling simple, accessible and impactful for not just our business but our community.”

All e-waste collected will be processed by ANZRP through TechCollect, a national e-waste collection and recycling service which recycles devices to environmental standards. ANZRP is the only not-for-profit e-waste recycling service operating under the National Computer and Television Recycling Scheme (NTCRS).

“Every device collected means fewer harmful materials in landfill and more resources recovered for reuse. Metals, plastics and glass are separated and reprocessed, ready to be used again in new products — closing the loop and supporting the circular economy,” said Anne Stonier, Chief Marketing Communications and People Officer, ANZRP.  

From Monday, 15 September to Friday, 19 September, Macquarie University will have designated e-waste drop-off bins across campus, making it easier for staff, students and visitors to recycle unwanted tech.

“Sustainability is a core value at Macquarie University and initiatives such as public drop-off day and dedicated week-long e-waste collection bins empower our community to actively participate in recycling and resource recovery. These efforts not only divert electronic waste from landfill but also demonstrate our ongoing commitment to environmental responsibility,” said Nicole Marchhart, Head of Sustainability at Macquarie University.

Accepted drop-off items include:

• personal and laptop computers and all cables;
• tablets, notebooks and palmtops;
• computer monitors, parts and accessories;
• printers, faxes, scanners and multifunction devices;
• televisions.
   

Drop-off event details:

Friday, 19 September 2025
9:00 AM – 3:30 PM
Konica Minolta Office, 4 Drake Avenue, Macquarie Park
Collection bins will be located in the ground floor foyer and outside the cafe.

Saturday, 20 September 2025
9:30 AM – 3:30 PM
Macquarie University, West 6 Carpark, Macquarie Park
A convenient drive-through drop-off.

By recycling e-waste, businesses and consumers alike are helping to recover valuable materials, reduce harmful landfill and support the circular economy to build a cleaner, greener future.

Image credit: iStock.com/vejaa