Businesses back green scheme

THANKS: Aaron Garlick and Trudie Jones, Wairarapa Resource Centre co-ordinator, clear the overflowing recycle bin at the Greater Wellington Regional Council building in Masterton.

Businesses are stepping up to support a recycling programme which provides the Masterton-based Wairarapa Resource Centre with stock for their shelves and work for trainees.

Manager Trudie Jones collected overflowing recycle bins from the Wellington Regional Council and ACC building in Masterton yesterday.

Mitre 10 Mega is making the bins for the centre, and Mrs Jones wants to spread them further. So far, six bins are out in the community. Mrs Jones said they have taken on another two workers to cope with the stock.

The workers are not paid, but learn job skills and get an up-to-date reference and CV.

"Staff sort it, price it and put it out for sale."

She said the support from the businesses with the bins has been amazing.

"The more we can get into businesses, the more staff we can have, the more product for our shop, and more customers get choices.

"It's a win-win for everyone."

She said every day they get someone walking into the centre, asking for training. Thanks to the work generated by the bins, they can say yes more often.

If your business has a space for a bin or you would like to sponsor the programme, call Trudie on (06) 377 2090.