Albury Wodonga region sets organics collection benchmark
The councils of the Albury Wodonga region have set the “best practice” benchmark for food and garden waste (FOGO) recycling in Australia.
Recent data comparing the Albury Wodonga food and green waste contamination rate to other councils that have introduced similar services, shows that the region is performing better than all others, with a current contamination rate of just 0.8%.
Contamination is defined as the weight of non -food and garden waste, placed into the organics bin.
Albury and Wodonga Councils commenced the combined garden and food collection services for households this year.
Andrea Baldwin, Team Leader Waste Management at Albury City Council, said “The results are extremely pleasing and show that local residents have readily accepted this new recycling service.”
A review indicated that average contamination rates across NSW and the rest of Australia is around 6%.
Ms Baldwin said “The councils have invested heavily in community engagement and education. These results show that the community has listened and are keen to help protect the environment and reduce landfill.”
Julie Goodwin the winner of Masterchef fronted the campaign with TV adverts and print media.
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“Given that our three-bin collection system has only been in operation for a short period of time, we’re extremely proud of the local community for playing their part in not only reducing the amount of organic material going to landfill, but ensuring the contamination rate is exceptionally low. This also ensures a high quality compost is produced.” Ms Baldwin said.
The three bin system for residents is part of the larger Halve Waste Campaign which has a target of reducing waste to landfill.
“Our local residents have seen the benefit of the Halve Waste program and should be proud they have set the benchmark for using the organics recovery bin system.”
Further information contact:
Andrea Baldwin, Team Leader Waste Management 02 6023 8237
