Saving old computers from landfill

Arnie's Recon
Committed. Focused. Determined

Inspirational Lisa and Adrian Saunders have harnessed the power of community to keep 1400 tons of computer equipment, appliances, wire and cables out of landfill.

They co-founded the social enterprise Arnie’s Recon last year to make it easy for people to recycle their electronics and appliances. Lisa and her team collect any amount of e-waste that people send their way. “Our service is free to make it easy for people to recycle,” says Lisa.

Some of what they collect is rehomed. The rest is used for spare parts or recycled as scrap.

At first, Arnie’s Recon consisted only of Lisa and Adrian, with Lisa sometimes resorting to asking passers-by to help her load a 30kg washing machine or a 75kg computer server in their van. They now have a team to help, with a focus on creating opportunities for older people.

Thanks to their efforts, people have become excited about recycling and have organised neighbourhood programs and set up local collection spots.

“I've always been concerned about the environment and wanted to do something tangible with real results,” says Lisa.

She is excited that being nominated as a Westfield Local hero is an opportunity to highlight the benefits of recycling and let people know that there is an alternative to landfill.

Grant spend
Westfield Local Heroes are nominated and voted for by their communities, with the three top finalists per Westfield centre each awarded a $10,000 grant for their affiliated organisation. Arnie’s recon will use its funds to expand its free service to the community.

For further information on the Westfield Local Heroes program, click here