Substation33 helps marginalised individuals gain employment skills through e-waste and container recycling.
Substation33 is a social enterprise based in the Logan region which focuses on the reuse and recycling of electronic waste (e-waste) to create work opportunities. Recognised locally, nationally and internationally for its innovative approach, Substation33 addresses significant concerns about the increasing amount of e-waste produced globally. According to a UN report, the world generates up to 50 million tonnes of electronic and electrical waste annually, with only 20% being formally recycled.
In response to this issue, the Queensland Government has developed the Queensland E-Products Action Plan 2023–2033, aiming for a zero-waste society. The Action Plan emphasises the importance of partnerships with stakeholders to develop circular economy policies and programs that focus on repair, reuse, and durability of e-products. Substation33 is highlighted as a key example of an organisation specialising in electronic waste collection, processing and diverting e-waste from landfill.
Founded in 2012 by Tony Sharp, then a YFS Youth Worker, Substation33 is a social initiative of YFS, a community services organisation in Logan. Tony Sharp recognised the need to provide at-risk youth with a workplace where they could gain confidence and skills for sustainable employment. Another motivator was to address the growing amount of electronic equipment being sent to landfill. Substation33 accepts any item with a power cord or battery. They have prevented over two million kilograms of e-waste from ending up in landfill through recycling, repurposing or repairing. They have also developed commercial products using e-waste components.
One notable product is the Flooded Road Smart Warning System, designed to enhance road safety during flooding. This solar-powered system, with several days of battery backup, is installed in over 110 locations. Between 2000 and 2015, 85 people in Australia died attempting to cross flooded roads, highlighting the importance of such technology. Other products developed by Substation33 include electric e-bikes, 3D printers and a vertical garden monitoring system.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Substation33 addressed the digital divide by providing over 7,000 affordable computers to students who lacked access to computers at home. These computers, equipped with essential software, were sold at prices starting from $100. In 2021, Substation33 partnered with LiteHaus International to send 300 recycled laptops and 20 computer labs to Papua New Guinea, providing many students with their first experience of using a computer.
In line with their commitment to a circular economy, Substation33 began collaborating with Containers for Change in 2021. They have since recycled over 80 million containers and provided employment to 70 individuals, who have subsequently transitioned to mainstream employment. This program offers training and guidance to help people improve their skills and confidence for future employment opportunities.
Substation33 operates from two locations: their main e-waste facility at 31 Mary Street, Kingston, and their Containers for Change facility at 21 Aranda Street, Slacks Creek. They accept various electronic items, including fridges, mobile phones, desktop computers, printers and more. The social enterprise has supported, mentored and trained over 1,200 volunteers, providing an inclusive space for people of all backgrounds to learn new skills and transition to employment. Substation33, with its significant contributions to society and the sector, certainly stands out as a thriving social enterprise.
