Advancing Sustainability Through Material Reuse Testing
Facilitating Economical and Environmental Benefits by Ensuring Safe Repurposing of Wastes and By-products
At GSG Laboratories, we support sustainable practices by providing comprehensive testing and guidance for the reuse of various materials, waste, and by-products in compliance with government regulations. Recycling and reusing materials not only help minimise the waste going to landfills but also contribute to cost savings and the conservation of natural resources. Below, we outline some of the key materials that can be repurposed when verified to be free from contamination, offering environmentally beneficial solutions across a range of industries.
Soil Material as ENM (Excavated Natural Material)
Excavated Natural Material (ENM) represents an ideal resource for reuse in landscaping and construction, particularly when derived from undisturbed or developed sites. Common sources include soil stockpiled from residential projects, such as the installation of a new swimming pool. If the ENM is weed-free, it can be stockpiled and reused on batters, landscaping, or revegetation projects, promoting natural growth and reducing the need for new soil extraction.
To be reused off-site, ENM must meet the regulatory conditions of the EPA’s Excavated Natural Material Order 2014 and the Excavated Natural Material Exemption 2014. This allows for safe and legally compliant reuse as engineering fill or earthwork material.
At GSG Laboratories, we ensure that the ENM is tested rigorously to comply with these regulations, offering clients confidence that their material is suitable for reuse and promoting sustainable site practices.
Regional Footprint
We provide regional and remote testing solutions; our local teams possess unparalleled knowledge of their respective geographical areas. We have the capability and capacity to establish remote annex laboratories nationwide.
NATA Accredited Laboratories
We are accredited by Australia’s largest accreditation body; you can be assured that our practices meet or exceed the very highest performance and reliability standards in the industry.
Technical Expertise
Our team is comprised of some of Australia’s most experienced and highly regarded geotechnical, environmental and agricultural experts. Their collective expertise ensures that we are able to deliver quality solutions to our clients and provide the best mentors for our up-and-coming technical experts.
Quality Service
We strive to provide the best experience for our clients. We understand the importance of effective communication, efficiency, professionalism, expertise, and reliability for a seamless project. We operate a Quality Management System accredited to ISO/IEC 17025.
Concrete as Recovered Aggregates
Recovered aggregate, a mix of processed concrete, brick, ceramics, natural rock, and asphalt, is another excellent candidate for reuse. Commonly sourced from construction and demolition sites, recovered aggregates can be tested to ensure they are free from contaminants, asbestos, and other demolition by-products.
Once cleared for reuse, these aggregates serve as valuable materials in road-making, construction, landscaping, and drainage projects.
By repurposing concrete, brick, and asphalt, projects benefit from cost savings and reduce the demand for virgin aggregates, conserving natural resources. Recycled aggregates are ideal for pavements, earthworks, and drainage, providing an environmentally conscious alternative that meets engineering specifications.
At GSG Laboratories, we verify that the materials meet quality standards, supporting your project’s performance and environmental compliance.
Sewage Sludge as Biosolids
Biosolids are nutrient-rich, organic materials derived from wastewater treatment facilities, where the solid waste undergoes treatment, dewatering, and sometimes composting. With a similar nutrient profile to soil when dried, biosolids are valuable as soil conditioners in agricultural and non-agricultural settings, provided they are free from chemical contaminants.
Testing is essential to confirm that biosolids are safe for reuse, particularly for applications in crop production, forestry, and land reclamation.
At GSG Laboratories, we conduct thorough biosolid testing to ensure compliance with safety standards, enabling clients to utilise this resource responsibly and in a way that enriches soil health while minimising environmental impact.
Other By-products and Waste Materials
Various by-products and waste materials can also be repurposed, provided they meet the contamination standards specified in Australian Standard 4454. AS 4454 outlines the physical and chemical characteristics required for composted products, such as mulches, soil conditioners, and composts. Testing according to this standard ensures that the materials are safe, effective, and suitable for horticultural or agricultural applications.
Materials like composted recycled organics, when compliant with AS 4454, offer significant performance benefits, including enhanced soil fertility and structure, improved water retention, and long-term soil health.
By utilising composted materials that meet AS 4454 requirements, GSG Laboratories supports sustainable landscaping and agricultural practices, helping our clients maximise the value of their organic by-products while adhering to best practices.
Gympie
GSG Laboratories Gympie
1 Dennis Little Drive
Glanmire, Qld 4570
Bundaberg
GSG Laboratories Bundaberg
Unit 1, 5 Inglis Court,
West Bundaberg, Qld 4670
Hervey Bay
GSG Laboratories Wide Bay
107 Old Maryborough Road,
Hervey Bay, QLD 4655
Why choose GSG Laboratories for reuse and recycled materials testing?
Safe, compliant, and sustainable repurposing of various by-products
With a robust understanding of the Queensland and New South Wales environmental regulations, GSG Laboratories is at the forefront of advancing sustainable practices through our dedicated Reuse Materials Testing services.
Our expertise ensures that your repurposed materials not only adhere to the highest standards of safety and compliance but also contribute effectively to environmental sustainability. Engage with us for your reuse materials testing needs to secure your project’s success in sustainability and compliance, avoiding the risks of non-compliance fines while promoting a greener future.
Please contact our friendly and knowledgeable team on 1300 295 835 to discuss how we can assist with your Reuse Material testing needs, or request a quote here.
