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Member Spotlight: Phoebe Mitch

Written by WasteMINZ | 23 September 2025


In this member spotlight, we talk to Pheobe Mitch, Sustainability and Compliance Business Partner at Laminex NZ. 

Pheobe has over 5 year's experience focusing on sustainability                                            
in energy and dairy, with the past year focused on Building products sustainability.
 
Pheobe and Laminex are committed to reducing their manufacturing waste by finding circular solutions and designing products to enable this.  
 
"We believe the greatest impact comes from systemic change – building supply chains and business models that prioritise resource recovery, closed loops, and sustainable design." 
 
 
Tell us about your organisation

Laminex NZ is a leading manufacturer and distributor of premium surfaces and building products, proudly supporting the construction industry with innovative, quality materials. We operate manufacturing facilities in Hamilton and Taupo, and distribution centres nationwide. As part of Fletcher Building, were committed to sustainable design, local manufacturing, and responsible sourcing. We aim to enable beautiful, durable spaces while reducing environmental impacts through measuring our carbon and waste across our operations and supply chain.  

Why did you want to join WasteMINZ? 

We joined WasteMINZ to collaborate with other industry leaders, councils, researchers and practitioners tackling Aotearoa’s waste challenges.  

WasteMINZ provides a vital forum for shared learning, best practice development, and collective problem solving. For us, membership is about growing our capability, staying informed on evolving regulations and technologies, and contributing to sector-wide progress. We get the opportunity to build and strengthen partnerships that can accelerate our own waste minimisation goals and support NZ's transition to a circular, low carbon economy.  

What topic/issue are you most passionate about when it comes to waste, resource recovery or contaminated land?

At Laminex NZ, we're particularly passionate about transforming building and construction waste management. Our industry generates large volumes of difficult-to-recycle materials and tackling this requires innovative thinking and collaboration. We’re committed to reducing our manufacturing waste to landfill, finding circular solutions for offcuts and packaging, and designing products with recovery and reuse in mind. We believe the greatest impact comes from systemic change – building supply chains and business models that prioritise resource recovery, closed loops, and sustainable design.  

What are you reading or listening to right now?

Reading Ikigai, which explored the Japanese concept of finding purpose and meaning in life – a timely reminder to align work with what truly matters.  

Listening to the Working Hard podcast by Grace Beverley. This podcast challenges traditional views on productivity and balance.  

Both have been thought-provoking and relevant, helping me reflect on sustainable ways of working – personally and professionally – and how purpose, balance, and mindful productivity can create more meaningful impact in my role.

Describe your perfect day outside of work

My perfect day outside of work is spent mostly outdoors. I’d start with a long walk with my dog, enjoying fresh air and quiet time together. I love getting my hands in the soil, so I’d spend time tending the garden or planting something new. I’d also work on one of the many house renovation projects and finish the day cooking a lovely dinner to share.  
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