Australian innovator Cosset Industries has won a national environmental award for a unique product that turns old cash, plastic bags and discarded drink bottles into trashcan holders.

Cosset Industries won the Infrastructure Australia Green Award for its PlastiPole bin retention system, presented at an international trade expo at the Adelaide Showgrounds last week.

Supported by the SA Government’s Office of Major Projects and Infrastructure, the Infrastructure Australia 2008 trade exhibition focused on the products and services required for commercial, industrial and major projects. Cosset Industries exhibited in a specialised Green section of the October 16-18 expo, which featured sustainable products.

Released just three months ago, the PlastiPole body is made from 100 per cent recycled plastic. Benefits of the Australian-made product include robust construction, maintenance-free components and rust-free design.The PlastiPole’s secure locking mechanism reduces the risk of vandalism and theft. Used to secure mobile garbage bins in public spaces, institutions and commercial facilities, it is designed with a fast release system for quick and easy emptying when unlocked.

Cosset Industries director Andrew Townsend said the PlastiPole had enjoyed a great reception since its release in July. “We sell it to local governments and every council that has been offered a trial has taken it up,” he said. “Early adopters include Alexandrina Council, Mid Murray Council, Trinity College and the Salisbury and Tea Tree Gully councils. The attraction of the PlastiPole is that it offers a low-cost replacement for the rusting and often unsafe metal bin holders that are widely used. We have sold PlastiPole units in every mainland state in Australia so far as well as the ACT.”

Mr. Townsend said the Green Award validated Cosset’s belief in the PlastiPole. “We have always believed in the product,” he said. “During the years it has taken us to design, develop and produce it, we were confident it would be successful. This award confirms our belief that the product delivers outstanding value while also providing a significant environmental benefit.”

Cosset Industries manufactures PlastiPole units and a range of other street and public space assets, made from recycled plastic, at its own factory in the Adelaide Hills town of Woodside.

Cosset products are made from 100 per cent recycled plastic that is often diverted from landfill. The granulated plastic is obtained from old shopping bags, shredded money, discarded PET bottles, car bumpers bars and even 20-litre chemical drums.

Cosset Industries is delivering a powerful growth story from turning trash into cash. The company is on track to double its revenues this year while employee numbers are also expected to double from its current five by the end of the financial year.

For more information about Cosset Industries

Free call:           1800 COSSET (267 738)

Email:               service@cosset.com.au

Website:           www.cosset.com.au

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