Leave It Better

We're not all talk

The YHA crew are endlessly looking for ways to reduce the impact of our properties and guests on the environment. Not only do we religiously collect paper, cardboard, glass bottles, plastics, aluminium and steel cans for recycling at every single YHA, but we've banned the sale of plastic water bottles at all owned and operated properties.

To get the point across, the crew at Melbourne Metro YHA emphasised the scale of single-use plastic bottles being discarded by putting them on display! Read more about the actions and outcome here.

One person's trash...

Travellers are always looking to 'lighten the load' when it comes to lugging belongings around and that's why several of our properties have dedicated spaces for unwanted items donated or left behind by guests. A great way to reduce your environmental impact when travelling is to source pre-loved clothing and gear for your trip and make sure your unwanted items go to a good home! 

Clean up your act

You've probably heard of Clean Up Australia Day, but that doesn't mean every other day is a holiday. It's an annual tradition for YHA staff to take time out of their day to participate in a clean up in their local areas (see below our Perth crew tidy up parks & beaches). Learn how you can step up.

Make a difference

There are so many initiatives out there to make us more concious of the impact we're making on our surroundings both at home and when travelling. Here's just a few that we think can help us all ensure we reduce our footprint.

5 Ways to Reduce your Plastic Waste when travelling

It's not easy, we know that, but it can be done! Switch, BYO & Swap your way to better choices!

Take 3 for the sea

How often have you seen food wrappers and cigarette butts littering our sandy beaches? Make a simple gesture and make a huge difference with just 3 pieces of rubbish. Find out how you can do your bit, the next time you stay at one of our water-side properties, in the fight against plastic pollution. 

Return & earn

A NSW initiative to encourage residents to recycle bottles and cans and earn money or donate to selected charities. Click here to see what household items are accepted and start saving them for a trip to your nearest collection point.

Image Courtesy of Return and Earn NSW

Recyclesmart

If only recycling could be as easy as ordering an Uber. Well, guess what - it is that easy! With RecycleSmart you can leave your items on your doorstop and organise a collection date and they will take it away. Find out about this great initiative here. 

Who Gives a Crap

Something we all take for granted is access to a toilet, but nearly 40% of the world popuation do not have this luxury. Find out how one company is fighting to change this one toilet roll at a time. YHA are proud supporters - the evidence is with these 3 rolls found at Sydney Central YHA!

Planet Ark - recycling near you

It's not just about how we dispose of things - it's really important to increase the longevity of things such as clothes, household items as well as sharing access to products or services. Visit this Reuse Information Hub for creative tips and resources.