At Stanwell, Personal Protective Clothing (PPC) is a must at all our sites for everyone’s safety. But what happens to PPE when it is worn out, no longer fits or isn’t needed anymore? Disposing of PPC when it is no longer fit for purpose creates a lot of unnecessary waste.  

To address this, we have launched a new recycling initiative in partnership with Endeavour Foundation and the Remote OpShop Project, aimed at managing our environmental impact and providing employment while positively impacting remote First Nations communities. 

Through this initiative, serviceable PPC items are rebadged by Endeavour Foundation and then distributed through the Remote OpShop Project. Employees can simply drop off their no longer fit-for-purpose PPC in one of the recycling bins provided on-site, and our partners handle the rest. 

Endeavour Foundation provides accredited recycling solutions focused on environmental sustainability. Their high-quality recycling centres divert waste from landfill, reduce waste disposal costs, and provide job opportunities for Australians with disabilities. By partnering with Endeavour Foundation, we are not only helping to build a more inclusive and sustainable landscape but also ensuring our clothing gets a second life. 

Rachel Webber, Site Manager for Endeavour Foundation, commented on the partnership with Stanwell saying, "We are excited to partner with Stanwell and the Remote OpShop Project on this innovative recycling initiative. By rebadging and repurposing Personal Protective Clothing, we are not only reducing waste but also creating meaningful employment opportunities for Australians with disabilities. This collaboration exemplifies our commitment to environmental sustainability and social inclusion." 

Tanya Egerton, Founder of Remote OpShop Project, said, “This initiative is a fantastic example of how we can transform waste into opportunity. Hard-wearing workwear like this is incredibly valuable — and often hard to access — in remote communities. By working with Stanwell and Endeavour Foundation, we’re able to provide access to essential clothing, support skill development, and address environmental challenges by diverting quality goods from landfill. It's a win-win for everyone involved.” 

This partnership not only supports environmental sustainability by reducing waste and diverting items from landfill but also fosters social impact by providing job opportunities and skill development for people with disabilities. Additionally, it builds economic capacity by teaching micro-business skills in remote First Nations communities. 

By partnering with Endeavour Foundation and the Remote OpShop Project, Stanwell is addressing environmental concerns while making a positive social impact, and it’s easy to do!  We encourage other organisations to join us in this initiative - please feel free to contact us for more details.