The results of the study conducted by RMIT University showed that the university is committed to environmental sustainability. The circular economy plan focuses on waste operations and aims to maximise waste diversion from landfills.
The current CE initiatives at RMIT primarily revolve around lower-order strategies such as recycling and recovering materials, with less emphasis on higher-order strategies such as reducing, refusing, refurbishing, and reusing products.
The survey conducted within the RMIT community aimed to gain insights into their activities related to the CE and waste management. The most selected activities included refilling water bottles, using cloth, or reused plastic bags for shopping, buying second-hand items such as clothing and furniture, and minimising paper printing unless necessary. High numbers of participants said that they would visit an on-campus op-shop (Fig. 1) or repair cafe.
The survey conducted with businesses in the project area focused on hospitality traders due to their high density in the region. Out of 142 businesses approached, only 11 responded (7.75% response rate), but the collected data provided valuable insights. Most businesses were associated with food retailing and food and beverage services, and only 36% mentioned incorporating environmental and sustainability principles into their daily operations. The study found a correlation between the inputs used and the waste produced, particularly in relation to fresh produce and organic waste. Energy and water efficiency measures, such as using energy and water-efficient appliances, were the most implemented sustainability initiatives (Fig.2).
Recyclable or compostable packaging and waste separation were popular actions, while businesses expressed aspirations to separate organic waste and find alternatives to landfill in the future. Sustainability initiatives were driven by factors such as climate and social conscience, the right thing to do, and business strategy/organizational policy. However, many businesses indicated that their actions were influenced by building owners, particularly those located on campus premises regulated by RMIT property services. Additionally, upfront costs/financial considerations, not owning the land/premises, and a lack of viable business models were identified as the main barriers to implementing future sustainability initiatives.
