Brisbane businesses lead the way on sustainability
Discover the WasteSMART Brisbane Award winners. They are changing the norm to make Brisbane cleaner and more sustainable.
Brisbane residents, community groups, kindergartens, schools, and businesses are working hard to improve our city's sustainability.
Recently, we spoke with 3 of the 12 category winners from Council's 2025 WasteSMART Brisbane Awards. These businesses are challenging the status quo for a cleaner and more sustainable Brisbane.
W Brisbane – winner of the WasteSMART Hospitality and Tourism Award
Emma Tobler from W Brisbane said the award reaffirms the team’s commitment to making a measurable impact.
“It motivates our team to continue to push boundaries and lead the way in responsible, sustainable luxury hospitality,” she said.
“We want to introduce sustainability without compromising the elevated experience guests expect at W Brisbane. Striking the right balance between informing guests and maintaining an effortless, premium experience is key, and it’s something we continually refine as our practice evolves.”
For other hospitality venues looking to start their own sustainability practice, Emma said starting small is key.
“Encourage everyone to contribute ideas. Some of the most impactful solutions come directly from daily operational insights.
“Celebrate quick wins and weave sustainability into every aspect of the operation so it becomes part of your culture, not a standalone project.”
W Brisbane representatives at the 2025 WasteSMART Brisbane Awards.
Animal Emergency Service Jindalee - winner of the WasteSMART Councillors' Choice Award
The innovative vet team at Animal Emergency Service Jindalee made small changes that set a new standard for sustainable emergency veterinary care.
Vet Geoffrey Dodds told us that making changes in daily operations made a significant impact. This included:
- switching to compostable alternatives for high-use items like absorbent pads
- introducing a recycling stream for clinical, organic and electronic waste.
“It goes to show that sustainability is achievable even in highly clinical settings,” he said. “This isn’t just an award; it is recognition that veterinary practices can lead by example in creating greener healthcare environments.”
Dr Dodds said bringing clients along on the journey was key.
“Helping our clients understand the importance of introducing sustainability practices into our day-to-day and animal care creates a ripple effect beyond our clinic.”
The team is now focusing on new practices. They will source eco-friendly products for the clinic and explore ways to recycle fluid bas and reduce waste to landfill. Additionally, they'll contribute to programs that turn used plastics into new products.
Love Me Again Market - winner of All-Star WasteSMART Award
Issy and Lana started Brisbane's popular Love Me Again Market. They believe every piece of clothing can have a longer life. This belief inspires them to create fun and engaging ways for people to enjoy fashion sustainably.
“Being more mindful with fashion doesn’t have to be complicated. A few small shifts like repairing or upcycling pieces can make a huge impact,” Issy says. “Shopping second-hand first can also help slow down demand for fast-fashion production.”
The dynamic duo now wants to grow charity efforts with partners. They aim to expand their impact beyond fashion.
“We’re also looking to launch a few new additions to our Mini+Me Market to really tap into the potential with pre-loved children’s items.”
Issy and Lana from Love Me Again Market at the 2025 WasteSMART Brisbane Awards.
More information
Visit WasteSMART Awards to read the inspiring sustainability stories of the 12 2025 category winners.