Media & Awards

Transforming Plastic Waste Through Education & Innovation

Excerpt from a larger article published in Eastsider News. Read the full article here: Eastside News.

As the world struggles with plastic pollution, the volunteer-led not-for-profit Rethink Recycling Community (RRC) shows how innovation and education can turn waste into a valuable resource.

Kym O’Shannassy, Mat Card, and a group of passionate locals founded RRC in 2020. Their mission began during a camping trip to Victoria’s High Country, where they noticed plastic litter scattered throughout the natural landscape—especially single-use lids. Determined to make a difference, they joined the global Precious Plastic movement and set out to create local recycling solutions.

Since 2023, RRC has recycled more than 2.1 million plastic lids and directly engaged over 20,000 people in schools, workplaces, and community settings. Their programs align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and aim to shift mindsets around plastic consumption.

At the heart of their work is Rustie, a solar-powered mobile education trailer. Rustie travels to schools and events, where students watch plastic lids being transformed into useful products using micro-scale recycling machines. These live demonstrations bring the circular economy to life and inspire people to rethink how they use—and dispose of—plastic.

RRC works with cafes, neighbourhood houses, Rotary, and Lions Clubs to collect plastic lids. Volunteers at their MakerSpace in Springvale wash and sort the lids by colour and polymer type. The team then shreds the lids and remanufactures them into high-quality items using injection, extrusion, and sheet press techniques.

While the organisation operates on a modest scale, its impact runs deep. RRC diverts plastic from landfill and waterways and empowers communities to take practical, positive action for the environment. With growing demand, they continue to expand across Melbourne and regional Victoria.

Have a look at our Education program if you would like the team to visit your school or event.

Celebrating Community and Sustainability in Greater Dandenong

On Sunday, Greater Dandenong welcomed 100 new citizens in a celebration of unity, diversity, and community spirit. The Greater Dandenong Australia Day Awards and Citizenship Ceremony honoured individuals who dedicate their time and energy to making a positive impact—values that align closely with our mission at Rethink Recycling.

We were incredibly honoured to receive the Sustainability Award at this year’s ceremony, recognising our efforts in promoting responsible recycling, education, and the circular economy. This award is a testament to the hard work of our team and the incredible support of our community.

Mayor Jim Memeti praised the nominees and winners for their contributions, highlighting the importance of inclusivity and proactive community engagement. “They demonstrate everything that is good, inclusive and proactive about our community; as they have selflessly contributed to build a strong, happy and more resilient Greater Dandenong,” Cr Memeti said.

At Rethink Recycling, we believe that strong communities are built on shared responsibility—not just for each other but for the environment we all call home. As Greater Dandenong continues to grow, it’s inspiring to see so many individuals dedicated to creating a better future for everyone.

The Mayor also welcomed new Australian citizens, recognising the shared bond that unites all Australians—whether born here or newly arrived. “We value diversity and the harmony that exists here, in this place that welcomes all,” he said.

Dandenong is a vibrant and diverse city, and events like these remind us that sustainability isn’t just about recycling—it’s about ensuring a thriving, inclusive future for everyone. Winning the Sustainability Award reinforces our commitment to this vision, and we’re excited to keep pushing for a greener, more circular economy.

Want to get involved in making a difference? Contact the team to learn more about how Rethink Recycling is helping to shape a sustainable future and how you can be a part of it!

Read more about the Awards.

A forward-thinking recycling initiative led by Kym O’Shannassy and Rethink Recycling in Melbourne is making a big impact.

It’s not just about reducing waste; it’s also about empowering local communities to embrace sustainable practices and rethink their relationship with plastic. By showing people how to recycle responsibly, Kym and her team are inspiring a new generation to care about the environment and take action.

Kym O’Shannassy, a passionate sustainability advocate, is well-known as a Sustainable Living Champion in the Whitehorse community. Her commitment to making a difference is evident in her work with the Rethink Recycling. One of their most innovative projects is RUSTIE, a solar-powered educational trailer. RUSTIE serves as a mobile classroom, traveling to schools and community events to educate people about recycling and the circular economy. Through interactive demonstrations, Kym and her team show how everyday plastics can be transformed into new products, giving waste a second life instead of ending up in landfills.

Kym’s approach to education is hands-on and engaging. She believes that the best way to teach people about sustainability is by showing them real-life examples. With RUSTIE, she has found a creative way to reach different audiences, from young children to adults, making the learning experience fun and memorable. This mobile classroom not only sparks curiosity but also inspires people to think differently about their consumption and waste habits.

Moreover, Kym’s dedication to environmental education goes beyond just spreading awareness. She is committed to driving positive change by equipping people with the knowledge and tools they need to take action. Her work with Rethink Recycling is redefining how communities approach waste management. By focusing on the principles of the circular economy, Kym is helping to create a future where resources are used more efficiently, and waste is minimised.

Kym’s journey as a sustainability advocate is a testament to her passion for the planet. Her innovative solutions and educational efforts are making a real difference, inspiring others to embrace responsible recycling practices. As we move towards a more sustainable future, leaders like Kym are showing the way, helping communities take meaningful steps toward a healthier planet.

This feature from Whitehorse City Council on Sustainable Living Champions explores Kym’s journey, her dedication to environmental education, and the creative solutions driving positive change for a more sustainable future.

Have a look at our Education program if you would like Kym and the team to visit your school or event.

A groundbreaking plastic lid recycling initiative in aged care residence in Melbourne is not only contributing to the betterment of the planet but also enhancing the wellbeing of its elderly residents.

Rethink Recycling has been including forgotten populations of aged care residents into our community since February 2021. Through our lid Sorting Centres, they’re able to participate in tasks that align to their ability level, setting them up for success. They feel as if they are connected once again, have purpose and a sense of fulfillment. The results seen with the sorting has been enheartening, especially when it has involved residents who don’t typically participate in activities, those residents living in autism and memory support units.

Introduced by VMCH physiotherapist, Caitlyn Socwell, “Residents say it makes them feel good knowing they are giving back to a greater cause, leaving them with a renewed sense of purpose and fulfilment. Plastic lids sorting also encourages residents with advanced dementia, who may not otherwise participate in activities, to become involved.”

Caitlyn’s work has been documented by articles in Third Sector and The Senior.

Have a look at our Lid Collection program for more details.