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Effective Strategies to Reduce Waste

Effective Strategies to Reduce Waste

by | Jan 31, 2025 | News, Sustainable Business, Waste

Reducing waste costs is a crucial goal for many businesses. And the good news is, you don’t have to wait until your waste contract ends to reduce costs. Here are some effective strategies to help achieve this:

  1. Conduct Waste Audits: Regularly analyse your waste streams to identify areas where waste can be minimised. This helps set reduction targets and track progress
  2. Implement Recycling and Composting Programs: Incorporate recycling and composting practices into your daily operations. This reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills and can lower disposal costs
  3. Reduce Packaging Waste: Choose products with minimal and recyclable packaging. This prevents waste from being created in the first place and can significantly cut costs
  4. Switch to Reusable Products: Use reusable bags, bottles, containers, and other products to prevent waste from disposables. This not only reduces waste but also saves money in the long run
  5. Optimise Processes: Focus on minimizing resource usage, such as energy, water, and raw materials, by optimising processes and adopting lean production methods
  6. Promote Reuse: Encourage the reuse of materials, equipment, and packaging within your operations. This can reduce the need for new purchases and lower waste generation
  7. Engage Employees: Educate and engage employees in waste reduction efforts. A company-wide culture of sustainability can lead to more effective waste management practices
  8. Invest in Technology: Consider technological advancements such as waste-to-energy systems and eco-friendly materials for more efficient waste management
  9. Review and Refine Strategies: Continuously assess and refine your waste reduction strategies to adapt to evolving regulations and best practices

By implementing these strategies, businesses can not only reduce waste costs but also contribute to a more sustainable future.

How Total Utilities Can Help

In 2024, the team at Total Utilities successfully managed $13.7 million worth of Waste and Recycling tenders, achieving impressive savings of $3.5 million for our clients. These savings ranged from as high as 59% to an average of 26% and were made up of better contract terms as well as increased landfill diversion.

If you need further assistance, Total Utilities offers procurement and advisory services to help you evaluate your options and make informed decisions about your waste contracts. Check out our services brochure.

Navigating the Rising Costs of Waste Management in 2025

Navigating the Rising Costs of Waste Management in 2025

by | Jan 6, 2025 | News, Sustainable Business, Waste

If 2024 has taught us anything, waste costs are on a relentless rise. With fewer recycling options in New Zealand and the implementation of waste levies and local authority levies, managing waste has become increasingly challenging.

In 2024, the team at Total Utilities successfully managed $13.7 million worth of Waste and Recycling tenders, achieving impressive savings of $3.5 million for our clients. These savings ranged from as high as 59% to an average of 26%.

Looking ahead to 2025

However, the current cost trajectory is clear: expenses will continue to climb with another round of waste levies starting on July 1st, municipal landfill increases, and annual price hikes from service providers. For instance, the “waste collection” producer price index increased by 5.9% between November 2023 and 2024[1].

The closure of the OJI Fibre processing plant in Auckland has added another layer of complexity. All cardboard now needs to be exported, which incurs additional freight costs to recycling destinations offshore. This change has resulted in reduced returns for both processors and clients. Oji Fibre Solutions will continue to recycle around 90,000 tonnes of cardboard annually at its Kinleith Mill[2].

Despite these challenges, there is some positive movement in the industry. The expansion and acquisitions of waste and recycling providers foster competition, especially in regional locations. Globally the waste recycling services market is estimated to grow from USD 124.23 billion in 2024 to USD 155.55 billion by 2029, at a CAGR of 4.60%[3].

How Total Utilities Can Help

Total Utilities is dedicated to assisting you in reviewing your current waste contracts, focusing on pricing, efficiencies, and diversion rates. We offer advisory services to help you evaluate your options and find solutions for increased diversions, enabling you to make informed decisions about your waste contracts.

By staying proactive and informed, you can better manage your waste contracts, optimise costs and efficiencies, and make strategic decisions for your business’s future.

Discover how Total Utilities can help you streamline your Waste Procurement, reduce costs, and provide comprehensive reporting.

References

[1]: Waste Dive, 2024 Waste and Recycling Trends 

[2]: Oji Fibre Solutions, Closure Announcement 

[3]: Mordor Intelligence, Waste Recycling Services Market Analysis

Why We Need to Get Passionate About Waste!

Why We Need to Get Passionate About Waste!

by | Oct 10, 2024 | News, Sustainable Business, Waste

By Pravind Singh, Sustainable Business Improvement Manager, Total Utilities

While waste may not be high on glamour-factor, it certainly has a major impact on the environment and your business’s bottom line.

That’s why we need to get passionate about opportunities to achieve meaningful change through innovative, practical, and cost effective waste and recycling practices.

As Total Utilities’ Sustainable Business Improvement Manager, I’ve seen a growing trend where clients and businesses’ potential partners—such as those awarding tenders—are increasingly choosing companies that prioritise environmentally responsible practices.

That’s why we focus on making waste management simpler, more cost-effective, and closely aligned with our clients’ sustainability goals. Our approach turns waste into an opportunity– meeting the increasing demand for accurate reporting and carbon emissions reduction.

At Total Utilities, our goal is to transform waste management into a strategic advantage for your business through:

  • Cost Savings: Helping you cut waste costs from day one.
  • Operational efficiency: Simplify waste handling and reporting to save both time and inconvenience.
  • Sustainability: Boosting recycling and green practices for positive environmental outcomes.

Results that Speak for Themselves

The impact of our work is truly rewarding. For example, we recently helped Mitre 10 with a large-scale waste and recycling project, leading to significant savings and streamlined operations. Here’s a snippet from their glowing recommendation:

“Partnering once again after our successful initial waste and recycling project in 2020 is a testament to the consistently high standards of Total Utilities… The impact of this project extends beyond mere savings; it has also enabled us to streamline operations and introduce sustainable solutions on a national scale.” — Vinay Linus, Head of Indirect Procurement, Mitre 10 (New Zealand) Ltd. Full testimonial here.

Another recent testimonial comes from Dilworth who we helped achieve a whopping 43% reduction in waste costs, effectively transforming their waste management practices. Read the full testimonial here.

Other examples include consolidating waste services for a major hotel group, saving $105,000 annually (21% reduction), and centralising waste procurement for a NZ bakery, achieving $27,842 in annual savings (15% reduction).

The list goes on…

Our Waste Services

Here’s how we can support your financial and sustainability objectives:

  • Waste Procurement and RFP Bid Process: We analyse your current services and secure competitive proposals, reducing costs and aligning with your sustainability goals.
  • Smart Waste Audits: Detailed site analysis and tailored recommendations, including hands-on education and senior management collaboration, to enhance efficiency and sustainability.
  • Clear Reporting: Intuitive tools provide clear insights into your waste data, enabling informed decisions that save time and cut costs.
  • Tailored Waste and Recycling Solutions: We source and select the best waste and recycling options, ensuring competitive rates and high-quality service.

It’s time to get passionate about waste, people! The opportunities to do better for the planet, while saving you time, money, and hassle in the process are endless. It feels good to do something worthwhile.

  • Get in touch today to discuss how we can help you reduce costs and meet your sustainability goals.
Get Your Free Consultation
Mitre 10 Chooses Total Utilities: Saving Money with Sustainable Waste Solutions

Mitre 10 Chooses Total Utilities: Saving Money with Sustainable Waste Solutions

by | Oct 10, 2024 | News, Sustainable Business, Waste

We’re excited to share this testimonial from Mitre 10! See how our partnership has helped Mitre 10 achieve significant savings and drive innovative waste practices across its New Zealand operations:

“Partnering once again after our successful initial waste and recycling project in 2020 is a testament to the consistently high standards of Total Utilities. This ongoing collaboration with the Mitre 10 cooperative has resulted in substantial cost savings and the signing of over 10 contracts across the country, each customised to meet the specific requirements of our retail sites. The impact of this project extends beyond mere savings; it has also enabled us to streamline operations and introduce sustainable solutions on a national scale.

Pravind, representing Total Utilities, has been an instrumental part of this success. His unwavering diligence and adaptability have ensured that all cooperative requirements were met with precision, even as we navigated various changes throughout the project. His proactive approach and commitment to client satisfaction have made the process seamless and transparent.

This collaboration exemplifies the strength of long-term partnerships in achieving strategic objectives while fostering innovation and responsible business practices.”

Vinay Linus
Head of Indirect Procurement
Mitre 10 (New Zealand) Ltd

  • Ready to transform your business with tailored waste solutions? No matter what your business size, we can help. Reach out today and let’s chat about how we can help you cut costs and achieve your sustainability goals!
Get Your Free Consultation

Waste Wins: Mitre 10 & Dilworth School Testimonials

Waste Wins: Mitre 10 & Dilworth School Testimonials

by | Sep 26, 2024 | Case Studies, News, Sustainable Business, Waste

Discover the real-world impact of our waste management solutions with glowing testimonials from Mitre 10 and Dilworth School

Vinay Linus, Head of Indirect Procurement, Mitre 10 (New Zealand) Ltd:

“Partnering once again after our successful initial waste and recycling project in 2020 is a testament to the consistently high standards of Total Utilities. This ongoing collaboration with the Mitre 10 cooperative has resulted in substantial cost savings and the signing of over 10 contracts across the country, each customised to meet the specific requirements of our retail sites. The impact of this project extends beyond mere savings; it has also enabled us to streamline operations and introduce sustainable solutions on a national scale.

Pravind, representing Total Utilities, has been an instrumental part of this success. His unwavering diligence and adaptability have ensured that all cooperative requirements were met with precision, even as we navigated various changes throughout the project. His proactive approach and commitment to client satisfaction have made the process seamless and transparent.

This collaboration exemplifies the strength of long-term partnerships in achieving strategic objectives while fostering innovation and responsible business practices.”


Grant Truman, Director of Operations, Dilworth School:

“Partnering with Total Utilities has been a game-changer for Dilworth School. Their expertise in waste management has resulted in annual savings translating to a 43% reduction in our waste costs.  Total Utilities has simplified a complex process, freeing up valuable time for both myself and my team. Their innovative approaches have significantly enhanced our waste management efficiency while making steps in reducing our environmental impact and improving the cleanliness and safety on our sites.

Special thanks to Total Utilities’ Sustainable Business Improvement Manager, Pravind Singh, for securing waste management services that not only offer competitive pricing but also align with doing waste better. His efforts ensured a client-friendly process while advancing our knowledge of environmentally responsible practices. Total Utilities has proven to be an invaluable partner in achieving both efficiency in operations and cost while taking steps to be more sustainable.”

Get in Touch for Your Free Waste Consultation

MD’s Take: Why Rethinking Waste Procurement Could Slash Your Business Costs

MD’s Take: Why Rethinking Waste Procurement Could Slash Your Business Costs

by | Aug 14, 2024 | News, Sustainable Business, Waste

Jonathan Gardiner, Managing Director at Total Utilities, provides his perspective on why rethinking waste procurement is crucial for achieving cost savings and operational efficiency for your business.

As businesses strive to optimise their operations, waste management and procurement often don’t receive the attention they deserve. Yet, effective waste procurement is more than just a compliance requirement—it’s a strategic advantage.

I’ve seen firsthand how companies grapple with several challenges in this area, and addressing these issues is crucial for driving efficiency and cost savings.

Key Pain Points in Waste Procurement

  1. Rising Costs: Transport costs, waste disposal levies, and the cost of carbon liabilities are all on the rise. This financial pressure can strain budgets and affect profitability.
  2. Supplier-Favourable Contracts: Waste contracts often heavily favour suppliers. They may include clauses allowing for sudden increases in inflation, transport costs, and disposal charges, often with short notice and frequent adjustments.
  3. Contract Complexity: Many businesses struggle with the fine print of waste contracts. Understanding how these terms could impact your bottom line is crucial but can be challenging without the right expertise.

How Total Utilities Can Help

At Total Utilities, we specialise in transforming these challenges into opportunities for our clients:

  1. Market-Competitive Pricing: We leverage our extensive market knowledge to secure the best prices and identify waste solutions tailored to your specific needs.
  2. Favourable Contract Terms: Our team is skilled in negotiating waste supply contracts that protect your interests and ensure you’re not burdened by unexpected cost increases.
  3. Cost Reduction and Environmental Impact: By optimising your waste processes, we help you reduce costs and minimise the amount of waste sent to landfills, benefiting both your financials and the environment.
  4. Up-to-Date Insights: We keep a close eye on market trends and government policies, providing you with the latest advice and strategies to stay ahead of changes.
  5. Sustainability Focus: With our finger on the pulse of policy and procurement, we offer smart solutions to enhance your sustainability efforts and contribute to a cleaner, greener planet.
  • If you’re facing challenges in waste procurement and want to explore how we can help optimise your processes and reduce costs, book a free consultation.