Call to end lubricant packaging waste
Major lubricant industry brands are calling on importers and distributors in the market to join them in tackling the
issue of millions of lubricant packages being discarded every year.
A Waste Lubricant Container Product Stewardship Scheme has been established with the aims of exploring recycling options
for lubricant containers. It is estimated that around 7 million (20 litre and under) lubricant and grease containers,
plus an unknown number of 200 litre drums, are sent to landfills each year. The scheme will aim to “close the loop” on
lubricant packaging and contribute to the development of a Circular Economy in New Zealand, with a focus on supporting
the development of processing capacity and end use markets.
“Considering that most lubricant containers are manufactured from High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) or metal, both highly
recyclable after pre-treatment, this provides the ideal opportunity to capture these resources onshore,” says Adele
Rose, Chief Executive of 3R Group, the project managers.
To achieve this, members intend to work together as part of a voluntary, industry-led scheme to recover, reuse and
recycle waste lubricant containers for urban and rural customers. This will maximise the number of containers diverted
from landfill and reduce the need for virgin resin imports.
“The scheme is focused on creating an environment for market pull through of the collected material, supporting the
economy through improved resource use and employment opportunities. The scheme will create a united industry position
that will help bring positive behavioural change to the way that waste lubricant packaging has traditionally been
disposed of,” Adele says.
3R began working with the industry after being approached by Z Energy Ltd earlier this year to facilitate an industry
working group to develop stewardship for waste lubricant container recycling. Initial meetings with the industry made it
clear a nation-wide solution was needed.
Z Energy are joined by well-recognised brands - Aegis Oil Co, Allied Lubricants Ltd (HWR), Castrol NZ, Farmlands
Co-Operative Society Ltd (Gulf Oil), Lubricants NZ (Vertex & Elf), Oil Intel Ltd (Total Lubricants), Penrite Oil NZ Ltd and Valvoline NZ Ltd. Other brands are expected to join up
over the coming months.
Single use plastic packaging has become a highly publicised international environmental issue. This scheme offers the
chance for the New Zealand lubricant packaging industry to take a leadership position on the issue.
For more information visit www.3r.co.nz/lubricant-container-stewardship-programme