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In 2023 Monash University completed the development of its Circular Economy Five-Year Framework and Implementation Plan to lead the transition to a circular economy where resources are used efficiently, waste is minimised, and innovation drives a more sustainable campus. The Framework identifies five key pillars, each underpinned by clearly defined targets and initiatives to achieve them.

CIRCULAR ECONOMY FIVE-YEAR FRAMEWORK

Further relevant SDGs:

SDG 2 Zero Hunger SDG 7 Affordable and Clean Energy SDG 8 Decent Work and Economic Growth SDG 11 Sustainable cities and communities SDG 13 Climate action SDG 15 Life on land

Monash University’s IT Asset Disposal program used Earth Day 2023 to encourage staff to return unused electronic items to reduce waste and environmental impact. Since 2016 more than 65,000 IT assets have been collected for reuse or recycling under the program, with the collective weight totaling in excess of 404 tonnes.

IT Computers

Further relevant SDGs:

SDG 3 Good health and well-being SDG 11 Sustainable cities and communities SDG 13 Climate action SDG 15 Life on land

The Monash University Reuse Centre diverts on average 60 tonnes of office furniture from landfill every year. Monash faculties and departments are encouraged to donate surplus furniture to the centre rather than storing or throwing it away. In turn the initiative offers departments furniture at savings of between 60 - 90 per cent off the recommended retail price. Furniture that is unable to be reused within the University is offered to staff, students and charities.

Further relevant SDGs:

  SDG 1 No Poverty SDG 11 Sustainable cities and communities

Subsequent to the Victorian ban on single use plastics, a reusable dining pilot program was held from February–November 2023 at the Clayton Campus Centre. The program was supported by Sustainability Victoria funding and involved five food retailers.

In 10 months of the program’s operation, a total of 146,151 reusable items were washed, including 65,331 plates and 1948 bowls. This was equivalent to 67,279 meals served on reusables, subsequently diverting the equivalent volume in single-use packaging from landfill.

Further relevant SDGs:

SDG 11 Sustainable cities and communities  SDG 15 Life on land