Closed Loop Recycling Process

At Kauri Park, we are committed to caring for the environment and providing a sustainable future. We are dedicated to integrating sustainable methods across our operations, with a particular focus on recycling and reusing materials.

The Problem

While large-scale planting projects are successfully bringing back ecosystems that have been slowly taken over by infrastructure, numerous plastic pots and trays are utilized to grow and supply the plants. Unfortunately, once the project is completed, these items are often disposed of in landfills, and currently there are few alternatives to the plastic pot that can withstand the growing demands and harsh environments. This is an issue that is frequently disregarded or underestimated. Consider a project involving 600,000 plants. Depending on their pot size, this would result in approximately 60,000 pots and trays being used. In total, this amounts to 12 tonnes of plastic which will then be taken to the landfill.

The Solution

While there are alternative options in development, right now the best solution is to find ways to significantly reduce or better yet, eliminate this plastic ending up in landfill. Here at Kauri Park Nurseries, we are proud to proclaim our ‘3-step plastic recycling process’, which we use to reduce our impact on plastic waste and ensure a sustainable and greener future for New Zealand.

The 3-step Plastic Recycling Process

Collection:

Our dedicated fleet of trucks gather all the pots and trays that are used in our planting projects ensuring nothing is left onsite, and then transport them back to the Kauri Park warehouse.

Chipping and Bagging:

Upon return, the plastic items are carefully sorted into four recycling categories, Polyethylene terephthalate, Low-Density Polyethylene, Polypropylene, and Polystyrene. Our plastic recycling process involves chipping and bagging each type of plastic, and then preparing them for the next stage of recycling.

Repurposing for Sustainability:

Once sorted and processed, the bulk bags of plastic are transported to specialised recycling plants. Here, they undergo transformation into long-term items such as agricultural pipes or fence posts. This commitment ensures that all plastic is repurposed, diverting it from single use to valuable resources that contribute positively to New Zealand's Primary Industries.

Through this 3-step plastic recycling method, step by step, Kauri Park works towards reducing waste and preserving the environment. Our dedication to sustainability not only benefits our business but also contributes to the preservation of our environment for future generations.