What is the IOT Esky Library?
Launched in early 2025, the IOT Esky Library is a source reduction initiative led by Tangaroa Blue Foundation on Christmas Island to reduce polystyrene waste.
Why target polystyrene?
Expanded polystyrene is a major contributor to marine debris in the IOT, with the Australian Marine Debris Initiative (AMDI) Database having consistently identified polystyrene as the top marine debris item on Christmas Island since 2011.
How does the Esky Library divert polystyrene waste?
The Esky Library aims to replace single-use expanded polystyrene eskies with a sustainable, reusable alternative, thereby significantly reducing polystyrene waste and extending the lifespan of local landfill resources. The library operates as a centralised resource where individuals and businesses can borrow a reusable esky, mitigating the need for disposable polystyrene packaging.
How long has the Esky Library been running?
The IOT Esky Library Initiative was launched in February 2025 with a highly successful trial that ran through to May.
Since the trial ended, a dedicated group of participating families has continued the initiative, made possible by PRL funding and the generosity of local island business Altitude Island Logistics, which has covered the return freight costs that keep this circular system functioning.
Was the Esky Library trial a success?
Yes! To date, Christmas Island residents participating in the program have diverted more than 1,000 polystyrene (EPS) eskies from entering the island’s landfill or polluting the local environment.
This equates to approximately 23,000 litres of polystyrene waste — or 23 cubic metres — not going into landfill, a significant reduction for a small island community!
This initiative would not have been possible without the ongoing support of all stakeholders involved. In particular, we thank the wonderful team at Hambleys IGA for carefully packing the eskies each fortnight, along with FreightShop, Altitude Island Logistics, PRL, TomKat KoolPak, and the support of the local Indian Ocean Territories Administration.