Waste and
circular economy

We're committed to reducing waste and improving resource efficiency across our operations, supporting a transition to more circular practices.

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Our approach focuses on minimising waste generation, improving material recovery and managing hazardous materials responsibly. This includes initiatives to reduce waste at source and increase reuse across key operational processes.

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Our approach

We apply a lifecycle approach to waste management, focusing on prevention, reuse, and responsible disposal across the extraction process.

Waste streams are monitored and managed through structured risk management frameworks to mitigate environmental impacts.

We continue to strengthen data collection and reporting to better understand our waste streams. This evidence-based approach allows us to identify opportunities for improvement and ensure our mining operations remain aligned with global standards.

Tailings management
and governance

Tailings management is governed by our Tailings Management Policy, which references the Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management (GISTM), the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs) and the Australian National Committee on Large Dams (ANCOLD) Guidelines. 

The Policy applies to the full tailings storage facility (TSF) lifecycle, including planning and design through to operation, closure and post‑closure, aiming to enhance safety, environmental performance and community engagement.

Key technical roles include the Engineer of Record and Responsible Tailings Facility Engineer, who provide engineering oversight, risk management and assurance throughout the TSF lifecycle. Regular reporting on TSF performance, audit outcomes and material changes is provided to senior management and the Board.

Tailings Management Policy
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Circular economy
initiatives

We are progressing circular practices across our global operations and value chain.

This includes strategic supplier engagement to reuse materials and extend asset life across both lithium mining and lithium extraction activities.  

These initiatives support emissions reduction and cost efficiencies by prioritising repair and recycling over replacement. We collaborate with partners to implement circular economy principles, such as tyre repair programs and equipment remanufacturing, that improve our overall environmental outcomes.

Our performance

We track waste generation and management outcomes across our portfolio to support informed decision-making.

Transparent reporting on our performance ensures accountability while contributing to a reduced carbon footprint and improved environmental responsibility across the business.

For more information on our waste management performance:

Sustainability Databook Annual and Sustainability Reports
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Latest News

Six people stand behind a red ribbon and Premier Roger Cook has large scissors to cut the ribbon.
05/06/2026 | Business, Pilgangoora Operation, Sustainability

PLS opens Australia’s first mine-site lithium mid-stream plant to unlock greater value at the resource

PLS today opened Australia’s first mine-site lithium mid-stream processing facility at its Pilgangoora Operation in Western Australia, with WA Premier Hon. Roger Cook MLA officially cutting the ribbon. The Mid-Stream Demonstration Plant Project (Demonstration Plant) represents a significant milestone in PLS’ strategy to move further down the battery materials value chain and capture greater...
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24/04/2026 | Business, Pilgangoora Operation, Sustainability

Commissioning of Mid-Stream Demonstration Plant with ARENA grant funding secured and offtake in place

PLS has reached a key milestone in its Mid-Stream Demonstration Plant Project, with commissioning commencing following completion of the Mid-Stream Demonstration Plant ownership restructure, securing of ARENA grant funding and execution of an offtake agreement with Ningbo Ronbay New Energy Technology Co. Ltd (Ronbay). PLS’ Mid-stream Demonstration Plant represents a deliberate step to test more...
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23/02/2026 | Community Australia, Sustainability

PLS scholarship supports next generation of renewable energy leaders

PLS is supporting the next generation of renewable energy professionals through a scholarship partnership with the University of Western Australia (UWA). Through our Community Investment Program, we are funding two scholarships for students enrolled in the Master of Renewable and Future Energy at UWA. The initiative reflects our commitment to strengthening the skills and capability needed to...
Waste and Circular Economy news

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