PBL

PROBLEM
BASED
LEARNING
PROJECT ROUND 1: TEST THE WATERS
GROUP BLUE TRIMESTER 1 2024
PART A - GROUP REPORT
A00120049 Jessica Littley
A00117658 Haylee Bates
A00054280 Sophia Wallington
A00079232 Jessica Finn
CONTENTS
03 GROUP MEMBERS
04 AGREEMENT DECLARATION
05 SYSTEM MAP
07 STAKEHOLDER MAPS
08 KEY STAKEHOLDERS
10 LOTUS MAP
11 SURVEY MONKEY RESEARCH
16 PROBLEM CONTEXT FINDINGS
19 THE FIVE “WHY’S?”
42 HOW MIGHT WE
43 WHO WHAT WHERE WHY
44 CHALLENGE STATEMENT
45 GROUP REFLECTION
46 CONCLUSION
47 REFERENCES
MEET THE GROUP
JESSICA FINN HAYLEE BATES

SOPHIA
WALLINGTON
JESSICA LITTLEY
GROUP AGREEMENT DECLARATION Jess L
Fostering Effective Collaboration

Key Points:
1. Clear Roles & Responsibilities:
- Ensures clarity, accountability, and task ownership.

2. Open & Respectful Communication:

- Fostering a positive team environment.

3. Timely & Consistent Contribution:

- Ensuring progress and meeting deadlines.

4. Conflict Resolution:
- Resolving issues promptly and constructively.

5. Mutual Support & Respect:

Benefits:
- Valuing diverse perspectives and collaboration. Enhanced teamwork and collaboration.
Improved project efficiency and outcomes.
Positive and inclusive working environment.
SYSTEM MAP Adoption of Reduction of waste, Promotion of reuse, Encouraging the sharing
Jess L
Cleaner and emissions, & recycling, & economy and product-
resource-efficient environmental impact in remanufacturing service systems
production methods manufacturing or products

SUSTAINABLE
CIRCULAR
PRODUCTION
PROCESSES
ECONOMY

Encouraging
Knowange Cooperation between
responsible
sharing and best governments, businesses
purchasing decisions by
practice exchange & civil society
organizations COLLABORATION RESPONSIBLE SUSTAINABLE consumers

& CONSUMPTION CONSUMPTION Promoting sustainable Raising awareness about

lifestyles and behaviour the environmental and
Financial and technical
Multi-stakeholder
support for sustainable PARTNERSHIPS & PATTERNS change social impacts of
partnerships
consumption
initiatives
PRODUCTION

WASTE ECO-LABELLING
CONSUMER
MANAGEMENT & &
EDUCATION
RESOURCE PRODUCTION
& INFORMATION
RECOVERY STANDARDS

Providing Enhancing consumer Development & Setting & enforcing

Efficient waste
accurate and accessible empowerment & decision Recovery of valuable implementation of eco- product quality and
Management:
information making resources from waste labelling schemes safety standards
collection sorting, and
streams
disposal
Promote responsible
Certification of products
consumption; awareness Promotion of waste
based on environmental
campaigns/educational reduction, recycling, and & social criteria
initiatives composting
STAKEHOLDER MAP 1 National and local
Industry associations and
Jess L
governments responsible
chambers of commerce
for policy-making and
(also SMEs)
regulation NGOs working on
Fair trade organisations
sustainability business
Waste pickers and and certification bodies
Recycling facilities and practices
informal waste
management workers
organisations
GOVERNMENT
Environmental and
ENTITIES consumer rights
Waste management
organisations
companies and service
WASTE NGO
providers
MANAGEMENT

RESPONSIBLE INTERNATIONAL
SUPPLY CHAIN
CONSUMPTION ORGANISATIONS Development banks and United Nations agencies,

Suppliers and
ACTORS funds such as UNEP, UNIDO
Logistics and
subcontractors in global & & DONORS
transportation
companies supply chains
PRODUCTION

Imports & Exporters

ACADEMIC
TRADE UNION AND RESEARCH Uni/Research centres
LABOR INSTITUTIONS focusing on responsible
Experts in environmental
sciences, economics and
ORGANISATION consumption and
social sciences
production

Labor organisations
Workers union’s
advocating for fair labor
promoting workers rights
and social justice in the
STANDARDS &
practices in industries production process MEDIA & CERTIFICATION
COMMUNICATION BODIES
CHANNELS
Organisations developing
Eco-labelling programs
and promoting
Journalists & media Journalists & media and initiatives
sustainability standards
organisations raising organisations raising
awareness awareness
STAKEHOLDER MAP 2 Soph W

Pubs
Policy makers Cafés
Supermarkets
Fast fashion Building material
companies companies Restaurants

Government Transportation Suppliers &

Weddings
services distributors
Schools
RESPONSIBLE
CONSUMPTION & PRODUCTION Large Legal systems CORE DIRECT IN DIRECT
Corporations Food
manufacturers Newspapers
Hotels Individuals

Workplaces Large profiting

Large food building
Companies Festivals
Hospitals & distributors; companies
doctor clinics Coles,
Woolworths
Influencers
 WASTE
MANAGEMENT Soph W
HOUSEHOLDS
LARGE COMPANIES
CORE
UNIVERSITIES

GOVERNMENT &
REGULATORY BODIES

ENVIRONMENTAL
ORGANISATIONS
DIRECT
SCHOOLS

HOSPITALS

SMALL BUSINESSES

MEDIA
INDIRECT

STAKEHOLDER MAP 3
 KEY STAKEHOLDERS Jess L

National Local
Environmental NGOs
Government Authorities
As the highest governing body, national Responsible for implementing collection Non-profit organizations advocating for
government establishes the legislative services and managing local waste issues like reducing consumption,
framework and allocates major funding facilities and resources within their improving recycling systems, and
for waste infrastructure and programs on jurisdictions according to national laws protecting natural areas from pollution
a nationwide scale. and plans. through research, education, and
activism.

Circular Waste Collection Green

Economy Companies cities
Businesses, NGOs, and researchers Private operators contracted by local Forums allowing urban leaders to share
promoting circular models to keep authorities to manage pick-up routes and successes in establishing separate
materials and products in use longer provide collection services for municipal collection of organics and construction
through repair, reuse, remanufacturing, solid waste from residential and some waste toward renewable energy and
and closed-loop recycling. commercial sources. reducing emissions from decay.
 KEY STAKEHOLDERS Jess L

Material Energy
Manufacturers
Recovery efficiency
Specialized plants that process Industries producing consumer goods Industries developing cleaner energy
commingled recyclables collected from influence product design and work with technologies work with waste managers
curbside programs to prepare materials brands/retailers to establish take- to recover energy from non-recyclable
for manufacturing use through sorting back/recycling programs for packaging materials through anaerobic digestion
and baling. and electronics at end of useful life. and waste-to-energy incineration.

Residents Sustainable Community

Individual people produce household
waste from daily activities and play a role
in waste reduction through adopting
sustainable habits like recycling and
composting at home.
transportation
Agencies and operators developing
electric, hybrid, and efficient public
transport networks collaborate on e-
waste take-back and utilising waste-
derived fuels.
Groups
Local organisations focused on neighbourhood
cleanliness, leading volunteer waste cleanups and
education initiatives, and providing feedback to
authorities.
LOTUS MAP (CONTEXT MAP)
Target 12.4:
By 2020, achieve the
environmentally sound
management of chemicals
and all wastes throughout
their life cycle, in accordance
with agreed international
frameworks, and significantly
reduce their release to air,
water and soil in order to
minimize their adverse
impacts on human health
and the environment
Target12.2:
By 2030, achieve the
sustainable
management and
efficient use of natural
resources
Disrupts ecosystems
Deforestation due to
over harvesting
Cost of waste disposal
Oil
Chemicals
Land degradation
The planet is running out of
resources, but populations are
conunuine to crow. lune 2100dl
population reaches 9.8 billion by
2050, the equivalent of almost
three planets will be required to
provide tne natural resources
Use of alternative
materials like composites
that reduce pressure on
resources
Sustainable practices
Mass excavation
damages soil quality and
pollutes water sources
Dirt, gravel, and bricks
BUILDING MATERIALS
Over consumption Masonry & concrete
Admit to harmful gasses
Goes to sewerage
into the air/pollution
HAZARDOUS/TOXIC
WASTE
Water pollution/water
contamination
Resource efficiency,
consideration of the entire
Water resources;
lite cycle or economic
activities, and active
drinking water and
engagement in multilateral
environmental
NATURAL RESOURCES
Recycling
Advance recycling
Steel & metal technology for
composite materials
currently not recyclable
Material footprint
Individuals can also
adopt more sustainable
lifestyles - this can
involve consuming less,
choosing Products with
BUILDING MATERIALS
Cigarette buds HAZARDOUS/TOXIC
WASTE
Landfill NATURAL RESOURCES
expand access to renewable
options in developing nations to
shifting our energy supplies
curb dependence on dirty fuels
shower water
Green waste
Adapt net zero carbon standards
for new buildings and
infrastructure
Air pollutants offer rebates for homeowners
making energy efficiency
retrofits
Allow food retailers to support community
Educate citizens on
donate unsold food reading expiration dates
programs that redistribute
Stop purchasing cut down on production
close to expiry instead of surplus food to those in and portion control to
disposing as waste. reduce spoilage
need
Target12.3
By 2030, halve per capita
The world is also
Encouraging the use of seriously off track in its Develop technology to extend
global food waste at the retail
MATERIAL
CONSUMPTION
biodegradable product & efforts to halve per FOOD WASTE shelf-life of perishable items in and consumer levels and
packaging capita food waste and transport and storage
reduce food losses along
losses by 2030.
production and supply
chains, including post-
Food waste is another sign of
The material footprint over consumption; tackling food Donate excess harvest losses
per capita in high-income loss is informed by data, as well wholesome food to food
countries is 10 times the
Plastic bags, straws, Food packaging as investments in technologies, banks rather than
bottle caps
level of low-income infrastructure, education.
A staggering 931 mil. tons of
sending to landfills
countries.
food is wasted per year
Governments need to enforce &
implement policies/regulations that
MATERIAL people get sick from include measures such as setting
FOOD WASTE targets for reducing waste Water waste
CONSUMPTION living near landfill and its
generation, promoting circular
polluting our earth economy practices & supporting
procurement policies
UN GOAL #12: Reporting has increased on
RESPONSIBLE corporate sustainability & public
CONSUMPTION & INDUSTRIAL WASTE Flameable INDUSTRIAL WASTE procurement policies, but has
PRODUCTION fallen when it comes to
sustainable consumption and
WASTE MANAGEMENT monitoring sustainable tourism.
Apply green chemistry
WASTE
Sustainability should be principles in product Target12.6
ENERGY Bad for landfill at the core of business
MANAGEMENT
practices.
design to minimise Encourage companies,
hazardous by products
especially large and
transnational companies, to
adopt sustainable practices
We need to change our
and to integrate
consumption habits, and
Public health Commercial food waste
Fossil fuels employment sustainability information
to more sustainable ones into their reporting cycle
are one
Global crises triggered a
ENERGY
resurgence in fossil fuel Circular economy
WASTE Community engagement
subsidies, nearly MANAGEMENT
doubling from 2020 to 2021.
Transitioning to a circular
Subsidise home energy audits economy involves designing
and retrofits such as insulation,
products for longevity, Improved environmental Reduce greenhouse gas Resource conservation
efficient appliances and
renewable micro-grids to repairability, and health emissions
recyclability.
 NSW: 44.44%

PROBLEM CONTEXT PRIMARY

QLD: 30.0% 18-24: 63.89%
VIC: 22.22% 25-34 11.11%
MACAU: 20.0% 35-44 5.56%

RESEARCH HK: 2.00%

EUROPE: 6.00%
45-54
55-64
8.33%
11.11%

SURVEY DATA - GRAPHS U.S: 2.00% 65+: 0.00%

DEMOGRAPHICS
Jess L
How familiar are you with the concept of responsible 2 How concerned are you about the impact of waste management
1 consumption & production in the context of waste management? on the environment?

5% 5%
20%

27.5%

22.5%

67.5%

52.5%
 NSW: 44.44%

PROBLEM CONTEXT PRIMARY

QLD: 30.0% 18-24: 63.89%
VIC: 22.22% 25-34 11.11%
MACAU: 20.0% 35-44 5.56%

RESEARCH HK: 2.00%

EUROPE: 6.00%
45-54
55-64
8.33%
11.11%

SURVEY DATA - GRAPHS U.S: 2.00% 65+: 0.00%

DEMOGRAPHICS
Jess L
How often do you actively engage in recycling (I.e waste Do you make an effort to reduce your overall, consumption of
3 separation, donating clothes, reusing plastic bags/lose material)
4
single-use items? Do you make an effort to reduce your overall,
at home or in your work place? consumption of single-use items?

15% 7.5% 7.5%

20%

35%
22.5%

50%

42.5%
 NSW: 44.44%

PROBLEM CONTEXT PRIMARY

QLD: 30.0% 18-24: 63.89%
VIC: 22.22% 25-34 11.11%
MACAU: 20.0% 35-44 5.56%

RESEARCH HK: 2.00%

EUROPE: 6.00%
45-54
55-64
8.33%
11.11%

SURVEY DATA - GRAPHS U.S: 2.00% 65+: 0.00%

DEMOGRAPHICS
Jess L
How important is it for you to purchase from companies that How would you rate the accessibility and convenience of waste
5 promote sustainable and eco-friendly practices?
6
disposal and recycling facilities in your community?

12.5%
15%

37.5% 35%
 NSW: 44.44%

PROBLEM CONTEXT PRIMARY

QLD: 30.0% 18-24: 63.89%
VIC: 22.22% 25-34 11.11%
MACAU: 20.0% 35-44 5.56%

RESEARCH HK: 2.00%

EUROPE: 6.00%
45-54
55-64
8.33%
11.11%

SURVEY DATA: WORD CLOUD U.S: 2.00% 65+: 0.00%

DEMOGRAPHICS
Jess L
Have you encountered any challenges or barriers when it comes to practising In your opinion, what additional measures could be implemented to improve
7 responsible consumption and waste management? If yes, please specify.
8
waste management and promote responsible consumption and production in
your community?

implement laws
Cost inefficient Inconvenience
Availability Accessible solutions
Limited Availability More awareness

“No” Cost friendly solutions

Lack of awareness Easy Access Online advertising More donation bins
Culture
Ends up in landfill
consumption
PROBLEM CONTEXT PRIMARY
RESEARCH
SURVEY RESULTS - HIGHEST REPONSES
Jess L
1 What is your age and where do you reside right now? 44.44% answered NSW and 63.89% of responses came from age group 18-24

2 How familiar are you with the concept of responsible consumption & production in the context of waste management? 68.29% answered Somewhat familiar

3 How concerned are you about the impact of waste management on the environment? 53.66% answered Moderately concerned

How often do you actively engage in recycling (I.e waste separation, donating clothes, reusing plastic bags/lose material) at 43.9% answered Usually
4 home or in your work place?

Do you make an effort to reduce your overall, consumption of single-use items? Do you make an effort to reduce your overall, 48.7% answered Yes, Sometimes
5
consumption of single-use items?

6 How important is it for you to purchase from companies that promote sustainable and eco-friendly practices? 39.02% answered Slightly important

7 How would you rate the accessibility and convenience of waste disposal and recycling facilities in your community? 39.02% answered 3/5 Stars

Have you encountered any challenges or barriers when it comes to practising responsible consumption and waste 21.88% answered Limited Availability
8 management?

In your opinion, what additional measures could be implemented to improve waste management and promote 28.13% answered Availability
9 responsible consumption and production in your community?
 Jess L
Projects that
INSPIRE:
Sweden’s progress toward a circular economy
Sweden serves as an inspiring global leader in advancing waste management objectives;
specifically a circular economy. Through coordinated multi-sector collaboration and policy
tools established over the last three decades, Sweden recycles nearly all household waste
with extended producer responsibility and targeted prevention measures (OECD, 2018).
Their integrated systems approach sustainability goals through diverse stakeholder
cooperation (OECD, 2018).

Under the producer responsibility model, companies finance post-consumption

management, incentivising eco-design and high recyclability to minimise environmental
costs (OECD, 2018). Additionally, national policies such as strict packaging rules and
container deposit systems bolster recycling rates. Overall, Sweden's integrated systems
approach exemplifies the benefits of incorporating diverse viewpoints to effectively
achieve sustainability goals through collaborative governance models (OECD, 2018).
Their experiences provide transferable guidance for other nations.
PROBLEM CONTEXT Jess L
SECONDARY RESEARCH
On the topic of waste management, the efforts in Australia reveal various initiatives aiming to advance sustainable production and consumption patterns (Australian Government Department of
Environment and Energy, 2020a). Government sources outline strategies addressing pressing waste issues (Australian Government Department of Environment and Energy, 2020b). As our initial survey
found, the majority of respondents were aged 18-34, with over 60% located in New South Wales. This suggests that consumer habits of younger Australians significantly impact waste generation.

The Australian Government Department of the Environment and Energy promotes reducing waste generation and landfill emissions through recycling promotion and policies restricting problematic
materials (Australian Government Department of Environment and Energy, 2020) (Australian Government Department of Environment and Energy, 2020a). Over 20% of Australian household waste is
edible food (Australian Government Department of Environment and Energy, 2020b), highlighting the importance of the National Food Waste Strategy's aims to halve food waste by 2030 (Australian
Government Department of Environment and Energy, 2020c). Studies examining residential waste composition show that food waste makes up over 20% of household rubbish, despite much being still
edible (Australian Government Department of Environment and Energy, 2020d).

Strategies focus on improving recycling infrastructure and collection, sustainable packaging design, and public education campaigns (Australian Government Department of Environment and Energy,
2020f) (Australian Government Department of Environment and Energy, 2020). Local efforts complement national actions, like the City of Melbourne's plan to shift towards a circular economy (City of
Melbourne, 2020). Plastics also present complex challenges due to gaps between plastic production increases and waste infrastructure development, according to sources cited in the image (Australian
Government Department of Environment and Energy, 2020).

International case studies inform the transition, such as Scotland's approach demonstrating zero waste system benefits (Scottish Government, 2016). Collectively, through coordinated multi-level
governance and cross-sector collaboration on the UN's sustainable development goals, Australia works towards resource efficiency and pollution prevention. E-waste amounts are rising globally due to
planned obsolescence and limited recycling programs. (Australian Government Department of Environment and Energy, 2020).

In summary, pressing waste-related issues require holistic, cross-sectoral responses integrating economic, social and environmental considerations for an effective transition to a circular economy model
(Australian Government Department of Environment and Energy, 2020).

Strategies for promoting sustainable waste management:

National Strategy for Waste Reduction: Government implementing a comprehensive national strategy focusing on reducing waste at all stages from production to post-consumption.
The strategy establishes ambitious targets and coordinates efforts across many sectors of society.
Educating the Public on the Benefits of Recycling: Public education campaigns helping individuals and communities better understand the environmental and economic impacts of
various disposal options. Signage and school curricula aim to cultivate long-term changes in consumer habits and social norms around consumption.
Investment in Municipal Recycling Infrastructure: Upgrading waste collection infrastructure and processing facilities to streamline sorting and prepare recovered materials for resale
markets. This supports high participation rates and quality of recyclables for continued cycles of reuse.
Advocating for Sustainable Product Design and Packing: Partnering with manufacturers to design products and packaging with recyclability and recoverability in mind. New policies and
voluntary agreements encourage greener materials selection and recovery systems planning.
PROBLEM CONTEXT Jess L
SECONDARY RESEARCH - FINDINGS
Transforming economic systems & paradigms for environmental & social costs
Systems transformations are essential to sustainability Research underscores the need for economic systems that consider
true environmental and social costs over short-term profits alone. Paradigm shifts integrating sustainability across decision-
making could optimize resource efficiency throughout production and consumption chains.

Food waste due to overly strict sell-by dates and cosmetic standards
Flexible regulations can reduce food waste at source. Studies show overly strict quality standards contribute to high levels
of avoidable food waste. Calibrated sell-by dates and appearance criteria balancing community needs with reduced waste
present triple-wins.

Inadequate plastic waste management for rising plastic production & consumption.
Strategic planning closes loops for plastic materials. The data reveals mismatches as plastic outputs surge while
infrastructure lags. Coordinated roadmaps can better connect these interlinked realms to retain plastic value through
strengthened collection and recycling networks.

The growing problem of electronic waste (e-waste).

E-waste challenges demand scaled-up solutions. Rising volumes of electronic waste pose serious pollution risks if not
properly recovered and processed. Rapid response initiatives coupled with long-term strategic planning across
international, national and local levels are urgently required to manage this growing waste stream proactively.
PROBLEM CONTEXT Jess L
SECONDARY RESEARCH
THE 5 WHYS
PROBLEM 1 PROBLEM 2
Transforming economic systems & decision-making Food waste due to overly strict sell-by dates and cosmetic
paradigms to fully account for environmental and social costs. standards

Why?
Current systems prioritise short-term profits over Why?
sustainability because externalities are not fully priced. Grocery retailers prioritise visually unblemished produce over
feeding people to avoid losses from unsold food.

Why?
Decision-makers see resources as unlimited rather than Why?
recognising ecological limits. Current economics fail to account for the health and climate
impacts of wasted yet nutritious food.

Why?
Paradigms value unlimited growth over sustainability and Why?
nature's services. Natural variations are incorrectly viewed as defects instead of
normal for most fruits and vegetables.

Why?
Industrial influence and limited education entrenched short- Why?
term mindsets. Standardising donation policies across supply chains could
help redirect unused but edible food.

Why?
Systemic change is needed to align business with Why?
sustainability through new incentives. Revising guidelines through industry collaboration may better
reflect natural attributes and cut preventable waste.
PROBLEM CONTEXT Jess L
SECONDARY RESEARCH
THE 5 WHYS
PROBLEM 3 PROBLEM 4
Inadequate plastic waste management for rising plastic The growing problem of electronic waste (e-waste)
production and consumption

Why? Why?
As plastic output increases, waste infrastructure lags to Built-in product expiration and unaddressed faults fuel
handle growing post-consumer volumes. replacement cycles dumping toxics uncontrolled.

Why? Why?
True production costs omit pollution costs not internalised Obsolescence design and frequent glitches push constant
over entire lifecycles and decay. upgrades without safe recycling coordination.

Why? Why?
Limited recycling knowledge guides disposal habits despite Repair bans, durability gaps, and inconsistent responsibility
some plastics' hazardous ingredients. leave e-waste untreated.

Why? Why?
Weakened rules and lobbying hinder cutting plastic waste True costs of critical materials and dumping external to low
while marketing favours single-use. prices spur replacement preferences.

Why? Why?
Mandating recycled content and phasing out problematic Strengthening rules for recyclability planning may motivate
plastics may adjust corporate priorities. industry sustainability over short-term sales.
.
PROBLEM CONTEXT Jess F
SECONDARY RESEARCH
The correct management and disposal of hazardous waste is a worldwide problem. Substandard, outdated and illegal practices of toxic waste disposal
affects individuals globally. Socioeconomically disadvantaged communities are at greater risk of being exposed to toxins from waste sites, leading to the
contraction of waste-related diseases. In India, Indonesia and the Philippines alone it was identified that there were 373 unmarked and functioning hazardous
waste sites. This led to an estimation of approximately nine million people to be at risk to unscreened and unsafe working and living environments (Fazzo
2017).

E-waste is currently “the fastest growing solid hazardous waste stream in the world” (Electronic waste (e-waste) 2023). The World Health Organization (WHO)
has identified that less than a quarter of the e-waste produced was being correctly recycled. Hazardous waste including e-waste, if not properly managed
and disposed, can cause adverse health effects on individuals living near sites where these materials are being dumped and or processed. This poses a major
threat to living organisms as toxic pollutants from e-waste contaminate the water, soil and air we breathe.

Although international regulations have laws in place, illegal trading and transportation of e-waste within low income areas continues. Children that live
within this demographic face the greatest risks as there is a lack of appropriate regulations, recycling infrastructure and training (Electronic waste (e-waste)
2023).

Strategies for promoting sustainable waste management:

Regulatory measures enforced by Governments
To promote sustainable practices, governments could put in place regulatory measures which could include bans on the amount of landfill business are each individually
able to contribute.
Educational programs
Increasing public awareness through educational programs in schools, & promotional videos on social media. These programs will be engaging and aim to raise awareness
about the correct ways to recycle, by also highlighting the implications waste dumping has on the surrounding environment.
Incentives and Rewards to encourage sustainable waste management practises
Governments could offer tax payers and or businesses incentives in order to encourage them to make better and more eco-friendly decisions in regards to waste
management.
PROBLEM CONTEXT Jess F
SECONDARY RESEARCH
KEY FINDINGS
Health issues associated with exposure to hazardous materials and toxic waste
Irresponsible recycling practices pose a significant threat to an individual's wellbeing. With direct links to chronic illnesses including
diabetes, dementia and cancer, it is crucial that immediate action is taken in order to secure a more promising future for ourselves and
generations to come.

Government laws and legislations lack authority

Government laws and legislations need to be more pressing to ensure that companies are abiding by them. By making the correct
disposal of hazardous material a requirement for businesses, it will force companies into adopting sustainable practices. Which, in time
will create a safe living environment for individuals and assist in the preservation of our ecosystems.

The irreparable effect hazardous waste has on the natural environment

The incorrect disposal of hazardous waste compromises ecosystems beyond repair. This causes a carry-over effect on all other living
organisms, as they are dependent on one another for survival. Therefore immediate action is required, to ensure the longevity and
welfare of our planet.

The growing issue of E-waste

As the demand for newer and more advanced technology increases, the already significant burden e-waste has on the environment
continues to grow. As it is currently the largest source of hazardous waste in the world, it is essential that these items are being
properly handled and disposed of in order to protect younger generations in particular, from over exposure to toxic chemicals.
PROBLEM CONTEXT Jess F
SECONDARY RESEARCH
THE 5 WHYS
PROBLEM PROBLEM
Health issues as a result of exposure to hazardous materials The need for Governments to be held more accountable for
and toxic waste. the overall wellbeing of individuals.

Why? Why?
Individuals lack of knowledge about the health risks As it is significantly affecting human health and the
associated with hazardous material environment

Why? Why?
Because of air, water, & soil contamination Because despite the laws in place, illegal trading and
transportation is still frequently occurring

Why? Why?
Limited access to proper recycling facilities Individuals deterred by sustainable options due to the coast
associated with recycling properly

Why?
Lack of awareness of how to properly recycle hazardous Why?
materials Since they are responsible for providing a safe environment
for communities

Why?
Because of the costs associated with implementing Why?
sustainable measures Because they are the voice for lower socioeconomic groups
PROBLEM CONTEXT Jess F
SECONDARY RESEARCH
THE 5 WHYS
PROBLEM PROBLEM
The negative effect hazardous waste has on the natural The incorrect disposal of E-waste and how this is going to be
environment. managed as the demand for technology increases.

Why? Why?
As ecosystems cannot coexist without one another There is a lack of sustainable practises in place

Why? Why?
Because of soil contamination, land degradation, air and water Prioritise profit over individuals welfare and the environment
pollution
Why?
Why? Lack of awareness of how to correctly dispose of these items
Because all living things rely on the environment for survival
Why?
Why? Because it has significant and long term effects on humans, in
The financial burden associated with correctly disposing of particular children and pregnant women
waste materials
Why?
Why? Because with the right measures in place it will ensure the
As it will ensure the health of our planet for not only us today, safety of individuals and communities around the world
but for generations to come
PROBLEM CONTEXT Haylee B
SECONDARY RESEARCH
My review of recent studies has highlighted several critical issues influencing waste management challenges locally and globally.

Firstly, the linear "take-make-waste" model that underpins modern economies is fundamentally unsustainable as products are typically used once before being discarded (Hossain et al., 2024; homenko et
al., 2021). As consumerism increases worldwide, traditional waste disposal approaches like landfills are struggling to manage rising volumes and are negatively impacting the environment (Awasthi et al.,
2021; Jones, 2020). Transitioning to a truly circular economy requires systemic rethinking of how resources flow within and across supply chains through longer product lifetimes, material recovery
practices, and new business models (homenko et al., 2021; Shooshtarian et al., 2022).

Secondly, the research demonstrated how exogenous crises severely test waste infrastructure resilience. The COVID-19 pandemic led to abrupt shifts in waste generation patterns, overwhelming some
local systems (Hossain et al., 2024). Geopolitical conflicts introduce economic and social disruption with flow-on effects for consumption levels that impact waste (Hossain et al., 2024). Climate change and
other environmental stresses compound these challenges. Building adaptive capacity through strategies like advanced technologies and coordinated multi-level governance will be critical to withstand
future disruptions (Kim et al., 2020; Hossain et al., 2024).

Thirdly, collaborative efforts across technical, policy and social dimensions are lacking but needed. While rating tools have strengthened building sustainability, they have not driven circular construction
practices (u et al., 2019). Regulations are inconsistent and more incentives are required to support innovation, reuse, and prevention over disposal (Shooshtarian et al., 2022; Jones, 2020). Broader social
changes also depend on changed attitudes, skills and awareness among key stakeholders (Kim et al., 2020).

Finally, there are information gaps locally that further analyses could help address. Studies point to needs for deeper exploration of issues like diverse waste streams, stakeholder roles, full lifecycles and
integrated methods (Li et al., 2022). Targeted research informing tailored solutions represents an opportunity.

Strategies for promoting sustainable waste management:

Transitioning to a circular economy: Strategically shifting systems, policies and social behaviours away from the linear "take-make-waste" model towards circular economy
principles of reducing, reusing and recovering resources at all levels. This requires long-term planning and coordination across multiple stakeholders.
Building adaptive waste management capacity: Equipping waste infrastructure with modernised equipment, advanced technologies and trained workforce to handle fluctuations in
waste quantities and compositions from crises. Monitoring and rapid response systems support resilience.
Harmonising regulations and incentives: Establishing a consistent and supportive policy environment through aligned laws, standards, accountability measures and economic
instruments across governance levels that prioritise prevention, recycling and renewed resource value over disposal options.

Closing waste & information loops through data & engagement:Facilitating analysis, open data access and public education initiatives to plug knowledge gaps, enable evidence-
based decision making, and cultivate long-term awareness, skills and engagement with more sustainable consumption behaviors nationwide.

Fostering multidisciplinary and cross-sector collaboration: Convening representatives from technical, academic, government and community sectors to cooperatively develop
integrated solutions based on shared understanding of challenges and open dissemination of research insights. Socialization of circular practices depends on collective effort.
PROBLEM CONTEXT Haylee B
SECONDARY RESEARCH - FINDINGS
The Linear Economic Model is Unsustainable
The take-make-waste processes underpinning consumer culture and industry are depleting finite resources at accelerating rates.
As global consumption patterns intensify with population growth, traditional waste dumping merely redistributes the pollution
problem spatially and temporally. A systemic paradigm shift towards circular economy principles is essential. Closing material
loops through continuous renewal, reuse and remanufacturing requires extensive coordination, innovation in business models, and
shifts in social norms/behaviours over long timeframes.

Waste Infrastructure Lacks Adaptive Capacity

The infrastructure was unprepared for rapid changes exacerbated by recent crises like the pandemic. Reactive approaches
cannot sustain resilient services, & inconsistent strategies result from fragmented responsibilities. Life-cycle stewardship
along integrated supply chains also calls for evolvable multi-level governance, monitoring & revised legal frameworks
supporting modularity, distributed capabilities and rapid reconfiguration.

Collaboration is a Critical Yet Fragmented Process

No single entity can solve such system-wide problems alone given their complexity. However, delineating roles and
priorities across policymaking, private sectors, communities and research proves difficult with misalignments. Long-term
partnerships similarly require outlining clear expectations, resources and accountability structures to operationalize
participatory action. Social learning likewise depends on meaningful inclusion of marginalized voices.

Valuing Understudied Factors Offers Opportunities

While analysis of broad themes provides insights, targeted examination of site-specific dynamics, underserved populations
and emerging issues stands to reveal new leverage points. Cross-disciplinary mixed methods as well investigating full
lifecycles, integrated systems and longitudinal impacts over lifespans likewise present avenues for refining strategies with
empiricism.
PROBLEM CONTEXT Haylee B
SECONDARY RESEARCH
THE 5 WHYS
PROBLEM PROBLEM
The linear economic model is unsustainable Waste infrastructure lacks adaptive capacity

Why? Why?
If we continuously extract resources without replacing them, It is designed with little consideration to future waste
someday there won't be any left to extract. generation patterns.

Why? Why?
It would prevent continued production and economic growth This is due to inadequate planning, and decision-makers
if necessary materials become unavailable or scarce. The focusing on immediate needs rather than long-term
economy relies on a steady supply of resources as inputs. adaptability.

Why? Why?
Researchers and policymakers often focus on more well- Waste management governance is fragmented, involving
known factors or issues that seem more urgent. multiple stakeholders.

Why?
A non-growing or contracting economy would lead to job
losses, declines in business and living standards over time.
This economic deterioration could seriously undermine social
and political stability.
Why?
Severe environmental degradation and climate change
impacts like rising seas, more extreme weather, declining crop
yields, etc. would disrupt critical industries, infrastructure, and
supply chains required for continued economic activity.
Why?
There are resource constraints and competing priorities,
making it challenging to coordinate adaptive strategies across
the system.
Why?
Resistance from stakeholders within the waste management
industry to change, leading to inertia and a lack of investment
in adaptive measures.
PROBLEM CONTEXT Haylee B
SECONDARY RESEARCH
THE 5 WHYS
PROBLEM PROBLEM
Collaboration is a critical yet fragmented process Valuing understudied factors offers opportunities

Why? Why?
Because complex problems rarely have solutions that one It could offer unique perspectives and solutions that may have
person can achieve alone. been overlooked.

Why? Why?
It's difficult to align diverse groups and perspectives without The area of research is multifaceted and complex, therefore
effective coordination. understudied.

Why? Why?
Organisations usually prioritise their own success over Researchers and policymakers often focus on more well-
collaborative efforts. known factors or issues that seem more urgent.

Why? Why?
Organisations and people operate within systems that Those factors have an existing body of literature or are
implicitly reward independent achievements over collective deemed as important areas of study at the time, so they get
work. more attention and funding.

Why? Why?
Problems like pandemics and climate change affect everyone, Depending on current global events, particular areas of
so we must find ways to jointly solve problems that transcend research will get more attention and flagged as important
single organisations or nations. (e.g. COVID-19).
 SOPH W

99 % of the stuff we buy is trashed within 6 months!

PROBLEM CONTEXT SOPH
SECONDARY RESEARCH Unsuitable Collection and Disposal
Infrastructure
W
OUR FINDINGS Increasing Volumes of Waste being
generated

Disposal of hazardous and e-waste is a

significant problem for waste
Lack of support from localities management.

Collection and disposal infrastructure

Limited or inadequate waste

Financial constraints / Insufficient funding Negative Sentiments Towards the Waste
Rising Operational Costs tied to waste management infrastructure – from Lack of standardised definitions for
for waste management Management Industry
collection,transportation, and treatment. Factors collection vehicles to recycling facilities recyclable and compostable materials,
such as higher fuel prices and increasing labour and landfill sites along with unclear national waste
costs are driving up financial burdens. management policies

WASTE MANAGEMENT ISSUES

Ever-Increasing volumes of waste:
overburdened collection and disposal
systems.

Inconsistent waste management policies

and practices across different states or
countries

Insufficient infrastructure and limited

access to recycling or composting
Unclear regulations (Understanding and facilities
Meeting Regulations
Ineffective recycling or composting

Changing consumer preferences

Poor collection systems and illegal
dumping Lack of Education among the general
public about proper disposal practices

Lack of Skilled Workers Transitioning to a “Circular Economy”

Lack of technological advances
Unsuitable Collection and Disposal
Ever-changing climate
Infrastructure.
PROBLEM CONTEXT SOPH W
SECONDARY RESEARCH
OUR FINDINGS - WASTE MANAGEMENT

WASTE SOURCES BEING DUMPED ON LAND-BASED

DUMPSITES AND IN OCEAN :
1. CONSTRUCTION WASTE
2. INDUSTRIAL WASTE
3. HOUSEHOLD WASTE
4. PLASTIC WASTE
5. ELECTRONIC WASTE
6. RADIO ACTIVE WASTE
7. SEWERAGE
8. RUN OFF WASTE(fertilisers, pesticides, and oil from for example farms
running off into groundwater, rivers, oceans).

EFFECTS OF WASTE DUMPING

Pollution of soil: Waste can leak hazardous chemicals into the soil and from
there into our food.
Air pollution: The burning of waste at landfills releases toxic substances into
the air, including extremely poisonous dioxin.
Pollution of oceans: 13 million tonnes of plastic end up in the world’s oceans
each year. If we keep dumping plastic in the oceans, by 2050 there will be
more plastic than fish in the sea.
Pollution of groundwater: 280 billion tons of groundwater is being polluted
every year - that’s 9000 tons every second.
PROBLEM CONTEXT SOPH W
SECONDARY RESEARCH
OUR FINDINGS - WASTE MANAGEMENT
The NSW Government collects data on waste generation, disposal, and recycling for three waste streams:

municipal solid waste (MSW) – waste generated by households and local government operations which mostly consists of paper/cardboard, plastics, glass, food and garden waste
commercial and industrial (C&I) waste – waste generated by businesses, industries and institutions that mainly contains metals, plastics, food, paper/cardboard and wood
construction and demolition (C&D) waste – waste generated by building and demolition activities, which mainly includes bricks, concrete and soil and may include problem waste such as asbestos materials.

Factors such as urbanisation, population growth, and economic expansion contribute to the generation of waste.

Inadequate waste management, ranging from absent collection systems to inefficient disposal methods, leads to air pollution, contamination of water and soil. Unregulated landfills further contaminate
drinking water sources and pose health risks by facilitating infections and disease transmission. The dispersion of waste harms ecosystems, while hazardous materials from electronic or industrial waste strain
the health of urban populations and the environment.

Insufficient waste management infrastructure presents public health hazards, as it fosters disease outbreaks through pest attraction and the creation of pathogen breeding grounds.

The absence of proper waste collection, transportation, and disposal mechanisms gives rise to severe environmental problems like littering and illegal dumping. This, in turn, escalates the risk of disease
outbreaks as waste accumulates and attracts pests.

Inadequate infrastructure not only leads to social and public health issues but also contributes to environmental degradation, including littering, illegal dumping, and pollution, all of which disrupt ecosystems
and pose significant challenges to public health.

The consequences of poor waste management extend to the degradation of soil, water, and air quality, exacerbating public health challenges and contributing to environmental pollution and climate change.
PROBLEM CONTEXT
SECONDARY RESEARCH SOPH W
OUR FINDINGS - WASTE MANAGEMENT
Every year, an estimated 11.2 billion tonnes of solid waste is collected worldwide and decay of the organic proportion of solid waste is contributing
about 5 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions. By 2025, the World Bank projects that 2.2 billion tonnes of solid waste will have been produced
worldwide.
Construction and demolition (C&D) waste accounts for the most waste disposed and recycled.

The waste management sector plays a pivotal role in modern societies worldwide. Effective waste management ensures proper disposal, minimising
adverse impacts on human health and the environment. Inadequate waste management can lead to littering, illegal dumping, and environmental
pollution, resulting in soil degradation, water and air pollution, and public health risks.

Australia faces significant challenges with plastic waste, producing 2.5 million tonnes annually, averaging 100 kg per person, yet only recovering 13%
of it, with 84% ending up in landfills. Alarmingly, around 130,000 tonnes of plastic leak into the marine environment annually.

As waste generation continues to rise, the waste management industry grapples with challenges such as insufficient funding, inadequate
infrastructure, and low public awareness. Improper waste disposal exacerbates littering, illegal dumping and environmental pollution, further
jeopardising ecosystems and long-term environmental quality.

Waste and littering can have widespread and damaging effects on the environment and human health. As consumption grows, so does the amount of
waste that needs to be effectively managed. Waste can vary in scale and type, from littered cigarette butts and single-use plastics to discarded food
and garden organics, illegal dumping of unwanted household items, construction and demolition waste and hazardous waste materials, including
asbestos and chemical contaminants.

Until recently, Australia exported much of its waste overseas, primarily to China. However, China's ban on importing various solid waste types in 2018
led to a global waste disposal crisis, as other countries followed suit. The subsequent lack of infrastructure for domestic recycling increased landfill
usage.

With a global population expected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050, changing climates, supply chain and workforce disruptions, rising input costs, and
nutrition-related public health concerns, there is widespread recognition that food systems must change if they are to provide for current and future
generations.

The imperative for sustainable and equitable food systems has gained momentum, underscored by the 2021 UN Food Systems Summit, which
convened stakeholders worldwide to address these pressing issues. These systems must be prioritised in international sustainability efforts, as they
impact human health, the environment, economies, and cultures.
 2,120,000,000
Tons of waste dumped on the planet
Every year we dump a massive 2.12 billion tons of waste
on the planet. If all this waste was put on trucks they
would go around the world 24 times.
FOOD WASTE SOPH W
AUSTRALIA
Australia is in a food crisis! We produce way more food than we need and a lot of it is being exported overseas, yet Australians are feeling food
insecurity right across the country. MAIN ISSUE
A third of all the food we produce in Australia, 7.6
The Foodbank Hunger Report 2023 reveals that 3.7 million households, representing over a third of the population, have experienced food insecurity
in the past year. This figure includes nearly half the population who are concerned about their ability to afford food. Not only affecting the million tonnes per year, is currently going to waste. 70%
unemployed and homeless, but now the majority of Australians, which is widely driven by the rising cost of living. This economic strain forces many of this is perfectly edible
Australians to grapple with food insecurity for the first time. Source: FIAL (2021). National Food Waste Strategy
Feasibility Study
Factors contributing to this crisis are diverse and dynamic. Economic pressures, exacerbated by natural disasters and extreme weather events like
droughts, floods and bushfires, have disrupted food production and supply chains, leading to increased food insecurity. Furthermore, supply chain
Food waste costs our economy $36.6 billion a year.
disruptions contribute to food waste, a problem compounded by consumer behaviour. Source: FIAL (2021). National Food Waste Strategy
Feasibility Study
Household food waste is a significant issue in Australia, with busy lifestyles, confusion over food labelling, purchasing habits and a lack of knowledge
on maximising food resources all playing a role. Despite producing surplus food, a large portion ends up in landfills, exacerbating the food crisis.

Issue 1- Over growing

More than 25 million hectares of land is wasted to grow food that is not eaten
Source: FIAL (2021). National Food Waste Strategy Feasibility Study

Issue 2 - Food Insecurity & Cost of Living

Australia produces more than enough food to feed our population. Yet a third of all the food we produce is currently ending up in the dump, and WHAT FOODS ARE BEING WASTED?
food insecurity is on the rise.

THE TOP 5 MOST WASTED FOODS IN AUSTRALIA ARE

Food insecurity is when people lack regular access to high quality food, which can be caused by economic, geographical, environmental, or social
factors. VEGETABLES, BREAD, FRUIT, BAGGED SALAD AND LEFT
OVERS
3.7 million households in Australia struggled to put food on the their table this year.
Source: Foodbank Hunger Report 2023

The number one reason households in Australia struggle to put food on the table is the cost of living.
(Source: OzHarvest & Southern Cross Austereo
Source: Foodbank Hunger Report 2023 Research, 2017)

77% experienced food insecurity for the first time in the past year.
Source: Foodbank Hunger Report 2023
FOOD WASTE SOPH W
GLOBAL
With a global population expected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050, changing climates, supply chain and workforce disruptions, rising input costs, and nutrition-related public health
concerns, there is widespread recognition that food systems must change if they are to provide for current and future generations.

One third of all food produced is lost or wasted –around 1.3 billion tonnes of food –costing the global economy close to $940 billion each year.
(Source: FAO Save Food Global Food Waste and Loss Initiative)

Wasting food is worse than total emissions from flying (1.9%), plastic production (3.8%) and oil extraction (3.8%).
(Source: WRI: World GHG Emissions 2016 & https://www.nature.com/articles/s41558-019-0459-z)

Up to 10% of global greenhouse gases comes from food that is produced, but not eaten.
(Source: United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) (2021). Food Waste Index Report 2021)

Up to 10% of global greenhouse gases comes from food that is produced, but not eaten.
(Source: United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) (2021). Food Waste Index Report 2021)

Food rotting in landfill releases methane – 28x stronger than carbon dioxide.
(Source: IPCC Special Report on Climate Change and Land)

If one quarter of the food currently lost or wasted could be saved, it would be enough to feed 870 million hungry people.
(Source: FAO The State of Food Insecurity in the World 2015)

Eliminating global food waste would save 4.4 million tonnes of C02 a year, the equivalent of taking one in four cars off the road.
(Source: YouSustain)
PROBLEM CONTEXT Soph W
SECONDARY RESEARCH - FINDINGS
Ineffective recycling and composting
Insufficient infrastructure and limited access to recycling or composting facilities results in significant rise in landfill waste, which could otherwise
undergo recycling or composting. This not only burdens existing landfill capacity but also worsens environmental degradation. Lack of recycling
efforts, stemming from lack of education and/or inadequate infrastructure results in contaminated recyclables being improperly disposed of,
compounding the issue and wasting materials that could have been diverted from landfills.

Unclear regulations
Varying and inconsistent waste management policies and practices among different states and nations is a significant challenge,particularly for companies with
operations in multiple regions. This creates uncertainty for businesses aiming to handle their waste responsibly. The absence of uniform definitions for recyclable
and compostable materials, coupled with ambiguous national waste management policies, can intensify this challenge. This inconsistency hinders efficient
waste management practices and complicates the efforts of environmentally-conscious companies.

Financial constraints
Inadequate financial support for waste management initiatives. Numerous communities, especially those in developing nations, face
shortages in funds required for establishing waste management infrastructure or schemes. This scarcity often translates into
inadequate waste management services.

Cost of living crisis

Australia produces more than enough food to feed our population. Yet a third of all the food we produce is currently ending up in the dump, and food
insecurity is on the rise. Many Australian’s cannot afford food to put on the table therefore a lot of food is ending up in waste.
PROBLEM CONTEXT Soph W
SECONDARY RESEARCH - FINDINGS

Lack of support from localities

Resistance to embracing waste management practices can stem from various sources; governments, individuals and corporations. People refrain from implementing waste
management due to false beliefs, incorrect media information, lack of knowledge and social and economic barriers. People might not follow the best waste management
procedures because they are accustomed to how things are done now or because they think change is unnecessary. On the other hand, businesses would not adopt the best
practices as they might be worried about the costs of implementing new waste management procedures. Similarly, political and social difficulties may restrict governments from
adopting the changes.

Lack of Education among the general public about proper disposal practices
There is a lack of understanding among the general public about proper disposal practices.When the public lacks sufficient education about recycling practices, there is a
heightened risk of contamination as people place non-recyclable items or contaminated materials into recycling bins.

Ever-Increasing volumes of waste: overburdened collection and disposal

systems.
The World Bank predicts a 70 percent surge in global waste volumes by 2050. As populations continue to grow, and consumption habits increase, the quantity of
waste generated can overwhelm existing infrastructure. This results in longer collection times for waste, overfilled landfills and facilities that struggle to keep up with
processing demands.
PROBLEM CONTEXT
SECONDARY RESEARCH
THE 5 WHYS
PROBLEM 1
Understanding and Meeting Regulations around global waste
management
Why?
There is inconsistency in waste management policies and
practices across different states or countries.
Why?
Different regions have varying priorities, resources, and
cultural attitudes towards waste management, leading to
divergent approaches.
Why?
There is a lack of international consensus or standardised
regulations for waste management, allowing for interpretation
and implementation discrepancies.
Why?
Global governance structures may lack sufficient authority or
enforcement mechanisms to compel uniformity in waste
management regulations across nations.
Why?
Political and economic interests of individual states or
countries often take precedence over collective efforts to
harmonise waste management regulations globally, resulting
in inertia and slow progress towards standardisation.
Soph W
PROBLEM
Cost of Living Crisis affecting food waste
Why?
Individuals are forced to only be able to buy what they can
afford minimising how much food is bought.
Why?
Limited financial resources compel people to buy in bulk or
opt for cheaper, perishable items, increasing the likelihood of
food spoilage.
Why?
The rising cost of essential goods and services leaves little
room in budgets for buying enough food and making
individuals buy less.
Why?
Income stagnation and inflation outpace purchasing power,
making it difficult for households to afford nutritious food that
lasts longer, leading to more waste.
Why?
Government policies fail to adequately address the root
causes of the Cost of Living Crisis, perpetuating financial
strain on households and hindering efforts to reduce food
waste through improved affordability and access to resources.
PROBLEM CONTEXT
SECONDARY RESEARCH
THE 5 WHYS
PROBLEM
Lack of education
Why?
There is insufficient awareness among the general public
about proper waste disposal methods.
Why?
Education systems and public outreach efforts may not
adequately prioritise or effectively communicate waste
management practices.
Why?
Limited resources or competing priorities may hinder
governments and organisations from investing in
comprehensive waste education programs.
Why?
Cultural attitudes or societal norms may not emphasise the
importance of proper waste disposal, leading to a lack of
motivation for individuals to seek out information or change
behaviour.
Why?
Misinformation or conflicting messaging from various sources
may confuse the public, making it challenging for individuals
to discern the correct waste disposal practices, further
perpetuating the lack of education on the topic.
Soph W
PROBLEM
Ineffective recycling and composting
Why?
Municipalities lack the resources or infrastructure to
implement recycling and composting programs.
Why?
Limited funding, competing priorities, or inadequate planning
may hinder municipalities from establishing or expanding
recycling and composting facilities.
Why?
Geographical limitations, such as being located in rural areas,
may make it logistically and economically challenging to
establish recycling and composting infrastructure.
Why?
Regional recycling facilities may lack the capacity or capability
to process certain materials, leading to rejection of recyclable
or compostable items and increasing reliance on landfills.
Why?
Some towns may be geographically isolated or lack access to
transportation networks, making it difficult to transport waste
to recycling or composting facilities, thereby increasing
reliance on landfills or incinerators for waste disposal.
 JESS L

HOW MIGHT WE?

1. How might we implement sustainable production and consumption practices to
reduce waste and promote renewable energy sources in waste management?

2. How might we incentivize circular economy practices, waste reduction, and

sustainable materials in businesses and consumer?

3. How might we leverage technology and innovation to minimize the environmental

impact of waste management and promote sustainable product development?

4. How might we design a circular economy approach to waste management that

KEY addresses root causes, engages communities, and promotes sustainable resource use?
JESS F
5. How might we address the cost burden associated with waste disposal for individuals?

FAVOURITE QUESTIONS 6. How might we work alongside the building and construction industry at a
local level to encourage responsible consumption and production of waste materials?

7. How might we influence the general public to practise responsible consumption and
production?
HAYLEE
8. How might we improve data collection globally for accurate statistics on waste
JESS L management?

9. How might we educate people on the waste they generate and how to reduce
HAYLEE consumption in a non-invasive tone?

10. How might we collaborate with local governments to improve how people view
JESS F waste and waste management strategies?
SOPH

SOPHIA 11. How might we create and manage sustainable and equitable food systems for our
growing population?

12. How might we gain support from localities to improve waste management
practices and enhance waste management infrastructure?

13. How might we manage Australian’s food over production and cost of living crisis to
manage our food chain?

14. How might we standardise definitions for recyclable and compostable materials and
establish clear national waste management policies?
WHO, WHERE, WHAT, WHY? Jess L
WHO is the audience?
Policymakers and waste managers. Also NGOs, businesses,
communities.

WHERE is it happening?
A global issue impacting developed and developing areas.
Examines municipal to international scales.

WHAT is the problem?

The overarching problem is unsustainable levels of waste
generation negatively impacting both environmental and
public health; Rising consumption contributes to overflowing
landfills.

WHY is it happening?
Factors include increasing urban population, lack of
infrastructure, greenhouse gases from decay, short product
lifecycles, economic priorities over sustainability.
Behavior and policy shifts needed
 CHALLENGE STATEMENT
How might we work alongside the building and
construction industry at a
local level to encourage responsible consumption and
production of waste materials?
 Jess F

GROUP REFLECTION
Our group successfully crafted a challenge
statement that encapsulates the various focus
areas of our research into the concepts pertaining
to responsible consumption and production. We
seek to identify the shortcomings of current
construction companies and provide them with
sustainable equivalents to standardized practices.
Our aim is to promote ethical waste management
practices at a local level in order to positively
impact surrounding ecosystems and crave a
sustainable future. As a group we recognise that
responsible consumption and production serves a
greater purpose in protecting our world and
therefore we seek to solve this through our
challenge statement.
NEXT STEPS Haylee B

In the first stage of this project, we aimed to thoroughly explore the problem context surrounding responsible consumption and production
in the waste management sector through primary and secondary research. Our analysis has revealed several key issues that require strategic
and coordinated solutions if progress is to be made towards more sustainable systems.

Through surveying community members, we gained valuable insight into current practices, concerns, and perceived barriers among local
stakeholders. This highlighted opportunities to enhance accessibility of recycling facilities and increase awareness of sustainable options
through well-targeted education initiatives. Secondary research complemented these findings, shedding light on the systemic roots of
challenges like inadequate plastic waste infrastructure planning and issues of built-in electronic obsolescence driving e-waste.

Application of problem-solving frameworks like the ‘Five Whys’ technique and stakeholder mapping tools allowed us to delve deeper into the
multiple layers of each problem area. This revealed the interdependencies between technical, economic, regulatory and social dimensions
which must all be addressed through integrated approaches. Our review of case studies from places like Sweden and Scotland also provided
inspiration, demonstrating the benefits of collaborative multi-sector governance models oriented around sustainability goals.

Overall, the first stage of the project has equipped us with a robust baseline understanding to move forward into stage two. Going forward,
we will begin to explore possible solutions that can make tangible differences at a local level. With this in mind, we will be able to define and
develop a design solution for the building and construction sector.
 REFERENCES
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Australian Government Department of the Environment and Energy. (2020). Climate Change Pollution. Retrieved from <https://www.environment.gov.au/climate-change/pollution>

Australian Government Department of the Environment and Energy. (2020)a. National Food Waste Strategy. Retrieved from <https://www.environment.gov.au/protection/national-food-waste-strategy>

Australian Government Department of the Environment and Energy. (2020)b. Recycling and Waste Reduction. Retrieved from <https://www.environment.gov.au/recycling-and-waste-reduction>

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City of Toronto. (2018). Waste Management and the Circular Economy: A Case Study of the City of Toronto's Green Bin Program. Retrieved from <https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/recycle-reduce-reuse/green-bin-program/>

Clean Up Australia (n.d.). Australia’s Waste Challenges. [online] www.cleanup.org.au. Available at: https://www.cleanup.org.au/waste-challenges [Accessed 20 Mar. 2023].
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CSIRO (2023b). The challenge of ending food waste and food insecurity in Australia. [online] www.csiro.au. Available at: https://www.csiro.au/en/news/All/Articles/2023/November/food-waste-food-insecurity [Accessed 23 Mar. 2023].

DomeShelter Australia. (2023). Top 10 Challenges Facing the Waste Management Industry in 2023. [online] Available at: https://www.domeshelter.com.au/industry/environmental/top-10-challenges-facing-the-waste-management-industry-in-2023/ [Accessed 17 Mar. 2023].

Electronic waste (e-waste) (2023) World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/electronic-waste-(e-waste)

Fazzo, L. (2017) Hazardous Waste and Health Impact: A systematic review of the scientific literature, National Library of Medicine .

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much!