Organics bin trial coming to Rockhampton
Published on 07 July 2021
Council is set to make an exciting step toward a zero waste future with plans to roll out a trial for a kerbside organics bin later this year.
The trial is made possible thanks to funding from the Queensland Government.
Rockhampton Region Mayor Tony Williams said this is a very exciting opportunity for our region.
“I really want to thank the Queensland Government for enabling us to roll out this trial,” Mayor Williams said.
“At the moment organic matter is taking up more than half the average kerbside general waste bin.
“Not only is this bad for the environment, it really is a waste when this matter can be recovered and turned into soil, mulch and compost.
“As our community moves toward becoming a zero waste region, the way we currently handle organics is a problem that we need to solve.
“This trial will tell us if a third kerbside bin is part of that solution.”
Environment Minister Meaghan Scanlon said she was pleased to support local governments to investigate new ways to recycle and reduce waste that ends up in landfill.
“We are investing more than $750,000 to help a number of local governments – including Rockhampton – to trial green lid kerbside bins that accept household organic waste,” Minister Scanlon said.
“It’s part of the Queensland Government’s record $1.4 billion investment to protect the environment, reduce waste and create jobs through Queensland’s economic recovery.
“We know that nearly half of the waste in an average household is organic, so this trial presents us with an opportunity to divert much of it from landfill.
“We also know that for every one job in traditional landfill, you can create three times that when you invest in recycling programs like this.
“The diverted organic waste will help create valuable products such as mulch, soil conditioner and compost.
“The data from the trials will be used to help Rockhampton Regional Council and other councils assess whether organic waste collection should be rolled out broadly across their communities.”
Waste and Recycling Councillor Shane Latcham said the organics bins will be rolled out in a few areas around the region when the trial commences.
“We’re still working out some details for this trial, but I’m sure many people will agree this is an exciting step,” Cr Latcham said.
“There will be three groups taking part – about 750 households in total.
“Some will receive a bin for food and garden organics, while others will receive one for garden organics only.
“I know there are a number of people who would absolutely love to volunteer to receive a third bin, however we want to make sure we’re getting a complete snapshot of the community, so we’ll be selecting some trial areas around the region.
“We’re still some months out from the bins hitting the kerb at the moment, and I’m excited to bring you more details as we get closer.”
Member for Rockhampton Barry O’Rourke said he was excited about the partnership between council and the Queensland Government, with systems in other states already diverting up to 83 per cent of food and garden waste from landfill.
“If successful, Rockhampton will be swapping food waste for new opportunities for business, savings for council and more jobs in resource recovery,” Mr O’Rourke said.
Minister Scanlon said the Queensland Government was committed to supporting recycling initiatives across the state.
“Trials such as these go a long way towards helping us become a zero-waste society. Investing in recycling programs is just one way we are delivering on our commitment to create a cleaner Queensland.”
This trial forms part of Council’s broader Waste Strategy, and vision to become a zero waste community by 2050. To find out more download the Rockhampton Regional Waste and Recycling Strategy available at www.rrc.qld.gov.au/rrwr