Partnership leads to New Zealand-first plasterboard recycling trial

Published: 9 May 2025

Last Updated: 12 May 2025

A new plasterboard recycling trial launched in Hawke’s Bay is a great example of what can be achieved when local councils, businesses, and industry partners work together.

At the heart of this initiative is a strong partnership between Hastings District and Napier City councils, Winstone Wallboards, Central Environmental, and major local building supply merchants - Mitre10, Carters, Placemakers, and ITM. The collaborative approach is a first for plasterboard waste in New Zealand.

The idea for the trial was sparked by regional construction and demolition waste minimisation lead Geoff Gibson, who recognised the growing issue of plasterboard waste and the need for a more sustainable solution.

GIB® Plasterboard manufacturer Winstone Wallboards played a key role in the development of the trial. Drawing on their expertise and national experience, they’ve helped design a practical, closed-loop recycling system, where plasterboard offcuts are collected, processed, and turned back into new product, tailored to the needs of the building industry.

Initially targeting the trade sector, Mr Gibson says the project shows the power of collaboration. “By working together, we’ve created a system that makes it easier for builders to do the right thing, and that’s a win for everyone.”

How it works:

The scheme uses specially designed returnable bags provided by Central Environmental.

These bags are distributed to building sites by local merchants with deliveries of Gib plasterboard. Builders then fill the bags with clean plasterboard offcuts.

Once full, the bags are picked up from site alongside empty delivery pallets, minimising truck movements and cutting emissions. The plasterboard waste is consolidated locally and transported in bulk when efficient to do so.

The goals are to significantly reduce the amount of plasterboard going to Ōmarunui Landfill, lower emissions such as hydrogen sulphide, and lay the foundation for a permanent recycling facility for the product in Hawke’s Bay.

“Our goal was to design a system that’s both practical on the ground and aligned with the region’s sustainability goals,” says Jamie Rodriguez, Winstone Wallboards Sustainability Manager. “It’s about making recycling second nature for the building industry.”

Central Environmental and local merchants have also been crucial in bringing the trial to life, managing bag logistics, educating customers, and supporting the smooth operation of collections.

Ian Butcher, Managing Director at Central Environmental is pleased to support the plasterboard recycling project.  “It's so encouraging to work with a dedicated team to reduce construction waste heading to landfill,” says Ian.

To ensure the trial’s long-term viability, data is being collected on tonnages and processing costs. This data will also help builders meet project waste reporting and Greenstar certification requirements.

As the trial progresses, regular updates will be shared with the community and feedback will be used to refine and strengthen the programme.

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