Have your say on waste services

Published on 06 November 2019

Community input and feedback is being sought to help shape a new Waste Management Plan to guide the waste and recycling services across the municipality over the next five years.

The new plan will replace the existing plan prepared in 2010, which has now largely been implemented or addressed.

Throughout development of the new plan, options for new waste management opportunities will be explored. The options include the introduction of Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) separation as previously considered in a business case prepared by Resource Recovery Gippsland. The primary aim of these options will be to reduce waste going to landfill and support initiatives that align with the State Government’s ‘circular economy’ objective.

Outcomes of the State Government Parliamentary Inquiry into recycling and waste management will also be considered following the release of the final report expected in November 2019.

Collaborative procurement opportunities will also be considered, including Resource Recovery Gippsland’s ‘Gippswide Kerbside’ initiative that is looking to procure shared regional waste services across the Gippsland Councils.

The new plan will also explore current industry pressures on recycling as a result of the China Sword Policy.

Fortunately, Council’s recycling services have continued to operate despite disruption in the sector. However, as the matter continues to impact recycling across Australia, Council will proactively revise its recycling strategies to ensure the best possible long-term outcome for the community and environment.

A short survey has been prepared to see how our waste services are going and explore interest for new waste initiatives.

Feedback is now open with submissions closing on Friday 29 November 2019.

For more information or to fill in the online form, go to www.bawbawshire.vic.gov.au/WasteServicesSurvey

Community feedback along with recent customer experience benchmark and community satisfaction survey results will assist in making further recommendations to Council for the development of a draft plan. Once a draft plan is developed, further community feedback will be sought before it is adopted.

“Waste and recycling are core services for our community. The new Waste Management Plan is an opportunity to refresh and improve how we manage our waste, recycling, greens and food organics with the community and environment front of mind. Community input and feedback is highly valued and will ultimately form part of Council's decision making - so we encourage you to have your say.”