2015-12-08 Infrastructure & Services Committee Agenda

INFRASTRUCTURE & SERVICES COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA                             8 DECEMBER 2015


   The main source of contamination in recycle bins was plastic bags.
   The main error people are making with regard to the use of the recycling bins is putting the
     recyclables in plastic bags.

General Waste Bins (red or dark green lids)
   The average weight of waste in the general waste bin was 18kg.
   On average, the proportion of recyclables (paper/cardboard, plastic containers, glass, cans,
     etc.) currently in the general residential waste bin is 15%. (By comparison, Sunshine Coast
     Council’s 2014 waste audit found 17% recyclables in general waste bins, and Moreton Bay
     Region’s 2008 waste audit found 25% recyclables in general waste bins).
   The most common material incorrectly placed in general waste bins (that should be recycled)
     is paper and cardboard.
   On average, the approximate amount of green (garden) waste currently in the residential
     waste bin is 10-15%.
   Approximately 6.5% of the general waste is food scraps.

Garden Waste Bins (lime green lids) – voluntary use
   The average weight of garden waste recycled in each bin was 16.5kg.
   The garden waste was very clean with virtually no contamination.




                      Recyclable material separated out of general waste


3.   Findings from the Audit

   Noosa residents are currently doing well in ensuring that their recycling bins are well utilised
     and free of contamination.
   Those that currently use a green waste bin are ensuring that the green waste is clean and
     therefore capable of being mulched without further sorting.
   A significant amount of recyclable material is incorrectly being placed into general waste bins
     and being sent to landfill.
   A significant amount of green waste is currently being collected in general waste bins and
     being sent to landfill.




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