Boost to local plastic recycling

RECYCLED plastic manufacturer Replas has received external funding which will be put towards upgrades at the business’ Ballarat hub.

Over two years, the factory in Canadian is set to be improved, and Federal Government Circular Economy Recycling Modernisation cash will partially fund changes worth more-than $2.5 million.

The money is a result of a successful grant application to Sustainability Victoria.

“This is a truly exciting opportunity for Replas, the Ballarat region, and plastic recycling as a whole,” Replas CEO Paul Hone said.

“It’s a significant project that will pioneer advancements in the circular economy, bringing real diversity in what we can deliver with end-of-life plastic and benefiting a wide range of industries; parks and recreation, councils, sporting, civil and infrastructure, plumbing, mining and more.

“The belief this grant demonstrates from Sustainability Victoria brings great confidence, and the financial contribution will go a long way in realising that vision here in Ballarat, making a real difference in the fight on plastic.”

Replas’ plans for the hub include the addition of state-of-the-art moulding machines to boost production and recycled plastic innovation.

This technology they aim to introduce to the factory is the biggest of its kind in the world, and something management expects will boost employment into the future. Alongside goals to innovate, Replas staff work to reduce waste and contribute to a circular economy.

Replas, or Repeat Plastics Australia, was established in 1991 and manufactures 180 durable products from recycled plastic.