Recently, I had pleasure in accepting an invitation to the official ribbon cutting ceremony for a new recycling initiative introduced at Marketplace Leichhardt. The Envirobank reverse recycling vending machine. Envirobank is one of Australia's first reverse vending machines a modern day answer to cash for cans.

They reward shoppers for recycling and complement the Centres waste management program by reducing recyclable waste and engaging retailers and members of the local community in the process.Owned by Local Government Super, Marketplace Leichhardt is leading the shopping centre recycling revolution by educating shoppers on the importance of reducing our carbon footprint!

Marketplace Leichhardt launched their inaugural Enviro Expo in September 2009, a six-week program designed to educate consumers in green initiatives and ideas and demonstrate how easy it is to adopt these methods into the home and everyday life.

The Centre has demonstrated it is committed to reducing its environmental impact through the introduction of initiatives such as solar panels which power all of the community amenities, installation of energy efficient lighting and purchase of 100% renewable green power to operate the Centre. These combined initiatives have resulted in a reduction in energy consumption since 2007 of 35%.

Leichhardt Council proudly supports Enviro Expo and commends MarketPlace Leichhardt on their commitment towards developing a sustainable future.

Cr Jamie Parker