Imagine if you could recycle your PVC gumboots? Well, now you can. Bata Industrials in Owhiro Bay, Wellington, not only make gumboots but also recycles them.
Each year, New Zealand produces more than 15.5 million tonnes of waste, which is 3,200kg for each Kiwi! Currently, in New Zealand, only 28% of waste is recycled. Thanks to consumerist habits, we are generating more waste than we can get rid of. Due to this, Bata Industrials New Zealand has made a conscious effort to reduce waste generation through recycling and reusing PVC content in their gumboot production process.
“As a dad of two kids I’m really happy to be manufacturing a product that can be reused. The more we can help the planet the better” Khan Sculley – Production Manager.
By using recycled materials, not only are Bata reducing the amount of waste reaching landfills, but they are also helping to reduce their carbon footprint. Bata's main objective is to have zero used/worn PVC gumboots disposed into landfills. Bata is working on setting up easy-to-use recycle disposal bins nationwide in collaboration with current distributors.
“Whenever I promote our recycling program, everyone I speak with is enthusiastic about getting involved. Our goal is to get everyone on board” Francis Hammond – National Sales Manager
To learn more about Batas PVC recycling program, click here.
In addition to contributing to New Zealand's sustainable future, Bata makes it easier for hardworking Kiwis to dispose of old gumboots. Recycling PVC is also cheaper than disposing directly to regular waste.
PVC gumboots can be recycled in five stages. The recycling centre processes the old boots after collecting them from various work sites. Next, the gumboots are sorted, and any non-PVC materials are removed. PVC pellets are then formed by shredding the boots. Using this recycled PVC material, Bata manufactures brand new gumboots ready for wearing.
About Bata Industrials:
Founded in the Czech Republic in 1894, Bata was one of the first manufacturers to sell its products all over the world. We specialise in high-quality industrial safety footwear. The safety of Kiwi professionals is our number one priority at Bata Industrials. Therefore, we strive to make the best professional safety footwear available. Our mission is to ensure all professionals stand tall, walk confidently, and remain safe in every situation. Bata gumboots are proudly manufactured at our Owhiro Bay, Wellington factory and have been worn by New Zealanders for decades. In tough environments, our gumboots have proven themselves in jobs from farming to mining to construction to firefighting.
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