Warrigal is excited to launch a new sustainability initiative aimed at recycling and repurposing thousands of medical gowns, safety goggles, and face shields. These supplies were accumulated during the COVID-19 pandemic as part of precautionary stockpiling efforts to ensure resident and staff safety. Now, as part of Warrigal’s commitment to environmental sustainability and community engagement, the organisation is reaching out to schools, universities, and community groups to find new uses for these surplus items.

Warrigal currently holds:

• 11, 850 medical gowns in sizes M, L, and XL
• 32, 200 safety goggles
• 4,600 face shields

While these items are no longer suitable for medical use due to expiration dates, they are perfectly appropriate for a wide range of educational, creative, and recreational activities. The organisation envisions these supplies being repurposed for art classes, science projects, or other community-based creative endeavours.

“Our aim is to ensure that these supplies don’t go to waste but instead contribute to local initiatives that inspire learning and creativity,” said Warrigal CEO Jenni Hutchins. “We take sustainability seriously at Warrigal, and this project not only helps reduce waste but also supports organisations in a meaningful way.”

In addition to repurposing medical supplies, Warrigal is engaged in a broader project to clear out surplus items from its Warilla home in preparation for the construction of a new community living village in the future. Items such as beds, old solar panels, bedpans, and wheelchairs are being donated to charities for shipment to overseas communities in need.

Any interested groups looking to incorporate these materials into their programs are encouraged to get in touch. Please contact Penelope Morton, Warrigal’s Sustainability Coordinator, at pmorton@warrigal.com.au to discuss how these items can support your initiatives.

ENDS

Media Contact: Elsbeth Olalia, Marketing & Communications Manager | +61 (4) 3665 5808