USQ thinks smart on e-waste

USQ has taken another step in its efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and at the same time has helped developing communities with repurposing and new best practice disposal of e-waste.

During 2011, USQ donated computers and other electronic equipment to schools in Fiji as almost 6000 kilograms of e-waste was disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner.

Alicia Logan, USQ’s Environmental Officer is seeking ways to repurpose much of USQ’s e-waste to help developing countries and communities in need of the equipment.

‘As part of the e-waste program we are looking at how we can reuse the equipment that has been refreshed at USQ. Much of the equipment can be repurposed beyond its immediate use or reused by communities that need it,’ Ms Logan said.

‘We are encouraging people to adopt the 4R’s - Rethink, Reuse, Reduce and Recycle’ as USQ looks to the future and continues to refine our waste minimisation strategies.’

In 2011, USQ recycled or responsibly disposed of e-waste which included everything from mobile phones and printers to old computers and televisions.

‘As part of this effort we were able to distribute almost 200 computers to schools in need in Fiji – which will make the world of difference to the kid’s education.’

The University has a dedicated e-waste facility that is available to staff and those disposing of e-waste are encouraged to contact the Environmental Officer or ICT Services.

‘In 2010 as part of an overall Environment Audit, the University underwent a comprehensive waste audit across all three campuses. One of the key findings of the audit was that through improvements to our waste management we have the potential to double our diversion rate (amount of material that could be recycled that was otherwise sent to landfill).

‘By combining our efforts and adopting the 4R’s USQ will be one step closer to achieving our goal of carbon neutrality by 2020.’

USQ has a number of environmental initiatives underway in the area of carbon reduction, energy efficiency, water conservation and waste minimisation.

For more information contact Alicia Logan, USQ Environmental Officer.