Recycling champion Greig Anderson recently marked a milestone of 22 years working at Wastebusters Alexandra.

A spokesperson for Wastebusters said Greig’s enthusiasm and love for his work was admirable.

In February, Greig celebrated 22 years working at the Boundary Rd site, firstly as a volunteer and now in a paid role as a customer services advisor.

He said working at the community enterprise was like “living the dream”.

“I love it so much.

“I like everything around here, including the weather - no matter what it is I’m in it and love it far too much.”

His favourite aspect of his job was “everything”, he said.

Anyone who visits the not for profit’s recycling drop off will need no introduction to Greig,

who is on hand four days a week, making sure recycling is dropped off in the right place.

He particularly likes chatting to customers when they come to do their recycling and is happy to answer any of their questions.

Greig is also one of Wastebusters’ loyal social media models, which has gained the

community enterprise widespread followers.

“I’m stoked by the attention on social media,” he said.

Greig encourages anyone who has yet to visit Wastebusters to do so, even if it’s just to

browse the shop or to see how the recycling process works.

Greig recalls his earlier years like they were just yesterday.

“I just walked in and had a look around. I don’t know how I got the job, but I started as a

volunteer, then as a bottle manager.”

Although there’s been a few changes over the years, one thing has always remained the

same for Greig - an appreciation for the many people he has worked with.

“It’s like a big family. I love all the people here and those from the past.”

Wastebusters is a social enterprise owned by the community, with a not-for-profit charitable status. 

Wastebusters has an emphasis on zero waste education as well as providing reuse and recycling opportunities. They also run community workshops such as repair events.

Started by the community two decades ago, Wastebusters currently employs approximately 70 people across its Wānaka and Alexandra sites.