Turning Waste into Opportunity: BASF Hutt Lagoon and Yamatji Fresh Collaboration

In a meaningful initiative to repurpose materials, BASF Hutt Lagoon has found a sustainable solution for 15 pallets of surplus Core Flute plastic packing boxes. Instead of discarding these 5,625 boxes, they were donated to the Southern Yamatji Group, a community organisation focused on employment, training, and economic development for the Yamatji people.

“We are delighted to support the Southern Yamatji Group with this initiative,” said Ian Pound, Site Manager at BASF Hutt Lagoon. “Repurposing these materials for a good cause is a practical way to contribute to both sustainability and community well-being.”

The idea arose when Ian learned about a water supply project that supports the group’s efforts to cultivate vegetables, providing local Yamatji individuals with employment and training opportunities. The donated boxes will be used to package fresh produce, aligning with BASF’s commitment to environmentally conscious practices.

The packaging was received by Tam Ly, Director of the 4 Ways Fresh – Yamatji Fresh Produce Joint Venture. This collaboration between 4 Ways Fresh, Indigenous Business Australia, and Yamatji Enterprises Limited grows cucumbers on Yamatji-owned land, supplying major supermarkets across Australia, including Coles, Woolworths, Aldi, and Costco.

Ian added, “This donation allows us to reduce waste while also supporting the economic and social growth of the Yamatji community. It’s a perfect example of how we can align our values of sustainability with meaningful community impact.”

BASF Hutt Lagoon, located on the remote coast of Western Australia, is home to one of the world’s largest algae production facilities, supplying carotenoids for food and dietary supplements. Known for its innovation and environmental initiatives, the site integrates sustainable practices into its operations while contributing to local community development.

The Yamatji Fresh Produce project is already making strides, with 125 greenhouses built and a target of 300 by 2025. Using sustainable water sources, the initiative aims to become the largest cucumber farm in Australia and the southern hemisphere.

This partnership with Yamatji Fresh Produce highlights the power of collaboration in tackling environmental challenges while fostering social and economic progress. It reflects BASF Hutt Lagoon’s ongoing efforts to create shared value through sustainability and community engagement.