Red is the Australian Standard colour for waste sent to Landfills, so this red system with clear pictorial labels is easily recognisable. This reduces contamination and limits training requirements. Red bases are also available for an even brighter system.

The world's resources are limited. Sending items to Landfills limits the reuse of precious resources and also creates environmental risks, given the toxins, microplastics, and gases associated with Landfill sites, which can escape into the wider environment. The aim of sustainability programs should be to minimise Landfill streams, and in leading organisations, Landfills are eliminated with conscious sustainable ordering practices and recycling programs.