Bunbury green waste recycler a finalist in recycling awards

9/11/00
Bunbury company Malatesta Green Organics has been chosen as a finalist in two categories of the State 3R (reduce, reuse, recycle) 2000 Awards.
The State 3R 2000 Awards, presented by the State Recycling Advisory Committee and coordinated by the Department of Environmental Protection, recognise outstanding achievements by individuals and organisations that reduce the amount of waste that would be destined for landfill.
Malatesta Green Organics was chosen as a finalist in the industries and small business categories for its development of a range of organic products that include green waste from agriculture and viticulture.
Malatesta Green Organics's philosophy of 'closing the loop' by returning products to their natural environment has saved an estimated $1.3 million over five years by diverting more than 200,000 cubic metres of green waste from landfill.
Its achievement is significant because unprocessed green waste comprises an estimated 30 per cent of landfill.
Farmers using the organic products have also gained through increased yield and reduced water use.
The company's commitment to research and public awareness has led to a 100 per cent increase in the amount of green waste it has recycled over the past 12 months.
One of its latest projects is a joint study with Murdoch University to trial mulch to reduce dieback on protea farms.
Malatesta Green Organics has been selected in the categories of Small Business and 3R Industries.
Environment Minister Cheryl Edwardes said the quality of this year's 33 finalists was a good sign that reducing waste was an increasingly high priority for WA businesses and the general community.
"This is the sixth year we have held these special awards to recognise companies that help the environment by cutting back and recycling waste material and this year's field of finalists is the strongest yet," Mrs Edwardes said.
"The awards attract sponsorship by organisations with strong environmental credentials, including the Publishers National Environment Bureau, the Beverage Industry Environment Council and Waste Stream Management.
"Also, Cleanaway, Alcoa World Alumina Australia, VISY Recycling and Millennium Inorganic Chemicals have lent their reputations as environmental leaders to the awards.
"These awards recognise finalists as leaders in environmental protection through waste minimisation."
Winners in each category of the State 3R 2000 Awards will be announced at a presentation dinner on Saturday, November 11.
Media contact: Steve Manchee on 9421 7777
Photos and comments: Bill Gifford 9725 4095