Waste
Reducing waste is fundamental to our operations and we are committing to managing materials responsibly and minimising landfill.
Our commitment
We are committed to the responsible management of waste across our operations.
Our approach
We recognise the potential of waste generated throughout the lifecycle of mining operations, processing and associated activities has the potential to cause environmental damage and pose health risks to our employees, contractors, communities and landscapes adjacent to our operations.
To ensure waste is appropriately managed, we monitor and report on all hazardous and non-hazardous waste streams in accordance with the Waste Avoidance and Resource Recovery Act 2007 and landfill licence conditions issued by the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation.
Circular economy
MinRes remains committed to applying the principles of a circular economy and implementing the WA Government’s Plan for Plastics, aiming to minimise and phase out single-use plastics across all our operations.
During FY25, we undertook several waste management initiatives, including:
- staged distribution of reusable crib kits to all operational sites
- commencement of the phase out of all non-essential single-use bottled water, with bottled water now only available on site for emergency situations, visitors or through purchase at onsite stores
- phase out of biodegradable coffee cups and cutlery from kitchenettes and self serve coffee stations, replaced with an increased supply of reusable alternatives
- expansion of Containers for Change refund scheme to all except one operational site, as well as selected Perth metropolitan facilities, increasing the total number of recycled containers to 310,381
- Transfer of 2,952 tyres from Wodgina and Iron Valley to the Elan Energy Recycling Facility.
Case study: rollout of reusuable crib kits
In response to the substantial waste produced by single-use items and plastic water bottles at our remote operational sites, MinRes piloted an initiative in FY24 to introduce reusable crib kits. Following a successful pilot, the kits were progressively rolled out to all remaining operational sites in FY25.
The project saw the distribution of more than 3,000 high-quality reusable crib kits across eight sites. Each kit includes a stainless steel thermal water bottle, coffee cup, a six-piece cutlery set with straw and cleaner, four reusable food containers and an insulated canvas bag.
The rollout was guided by a detailed change management plan, featuring early and targeted communication to employees and contractors through posters, digital screens and site briefings. Distribution and adoption were supported by clear instructions, informational brochures and daily maintenance of washing facilities.
Employees and contractors have embraced the change and the initiative has fostered improved waste practices, contributing to long-term cost savings and a more sustainable operational footprint for MinRes.
Key documents
To support our commitment, we have established a robust framework of policies, standards and procedures:
Related news
Mineral Resources (MinRes) has eliminated thousands of single-use meal containers from its operations by rolling out more than 5,000 reusable crib kits to its workforce — a move aimed at reducing waste and costs while driving positive change across its Western Australian mine sites.
Indigenous-led business Upcycle Tyre Services has been awarded a $5 million contract to MinRes' recycle haulage tyres.
Mineral Resources’ (MinRes) Osborne Park head office has become just the second building in Western Australia to achieve WELL V2 Platinum Certification.