A GROUND-BREAKING $45 million recycling facility in Laverton North is leading the way towards zero waste.

The Western Metropolitan Recycling Facility, owned and operated by the Alex Fraser Group, was unveiled last week.

Managing director Jamie McKellar said the new plant would recycle up to one million tonnes of materials every year.

The world-leading project created 160 jobs alone during construction.

Key features include dual jaw crushers, a multi-layered separation system, computerised technology for monitoring and a high capacity pugmill and load-out system.

Mr Brumby said the company was using state-of-the-art technology to recycle disused construction and demolition materials at unprecedented volumes.

“It will increase the maximum output three and a half times from 150 tonnes per hours, to 600 tonnes per hour,” he said.

“This burns less diesel and produces less carbon emissions.

“The capacity gains made available by this facility will boost Victoria’s ability to use recycled materials for infrastructure projects and new buildings across the state.”

Environment and Climate Change Minister Gavin Jennings said the state was at the forefront of innovative recycling initiatives.

“In 2007-08, 61 per cent of the total waste generated in Victoria was recycled,” he said.

“The Alex Fraser Group aims to recycle 40 million tonnes by 2014.”