Broken windows and flat glass from homes have often ended up in landfill, adding to Auckland’s construction and demolition waste. But now, Aucklanders have a new, sustainable option.
As part of a six-month trial, you can drop off flat glass - including broken window panes - at two community recycling centres:
- Wairau Community Recycling Centre in Glenfield
- Tāmaki Community Recycling Centre in Point England
The glass is then sent to the new 5R Solutions facility in Wiri, where it is crushed and remanufactured into new products like insulation, construction materials, wastewater filters, and even new glass items.
The Auckland 5R Solutions facility opening was officiated by the Hon. Chris Penk, with Martin Cooper, Kaumatua of Tainui Waka, and Auckland Councillor Alf Filipaina.
“Glass is a valuable resource, not rubbish,” says Manukau Ward Councillor Alf Filipaina, who attended the 5R Solutions facility opening.
“This new service helps keep valuable materials in circulation and supports a circular economy. By using our community recycling centres as collection points, we’re making it easier for Aucklanders to do the right thing and protect our environment.”
Why flat glass needs special care
Flat glass- like windows and windscreens - is different from bottles and jars. It melts at a different temperature and often has coatings, laminates, or reinforcing layers. When mixed with bottle glass, it can cause manufacturing problems. That’s why flat glass can’t go in kerbside recycling bins.
Practical for Aucklanders
Whether it’s from a backyard cricket mishap or a DIY project gone sideways, you can now safely recycle flat glass instead of sending it to landfill. Entire panes or broken pieces are accepted at either participating centre.
A trial with an eye on the future
Felicity Johnson, Senior Waste Planning Advisor at Auckland Council, says:
“Flat glass has long been a tricky material to manage in household waste. This trial helps us test how well community recycling centres can capture it and keep it out of landfill.”
If the trial is successful, flat glass recycling could be expanded to more centres across Auckland.
Who can use the service?
Residents: Bring flat glass, broken or intact, to Wairau or Tāmaki CRCs during opening hours. Check with your local centre for accepted types and any charges.
Businesses: 5R Solutions accepts larger quantities directly from businesses. Contact them for commercial recycling services.
What’s accepted
Single-pane flat glass. For other types, check with your nearest community recycling centre.