Bathurst residents get say on future kerbside recycling

Bathurst residents will have the opportunity to voice their opinions about recycling as Bathurst Regional Council undertakes a review of current kerbside recycling services in the Region.

The review is being completed by Orange Company Geolyse and aims to develop a life cycle model for the Waste Management Centre, (WMC), that can be used to examine various recycling and waste options.

‘Council has taken a responsible approach to recycling, currently providing a monthly kerbside recycling service for households in conjunction with the provision of a free Drop Off centre at the Waste Management Centre, (WMC) on College Road,’ Mayor of Bathurst, Cr Norm Mann said.

‘Yet, as the Region continues to expand and the demand for recycling services grows, Council needs to investigate sustainable strategies for the future of recycling within the Region.’

The aim of the review is to ensure the level of service provided, by a possible new recycling strategy, meets the community’s expectation and needs.

‘We are actively encouraging residents to come forward with their ideas and comments during the first part of the review process as community input and participation are vital in minimising waste,’ Cr Mann added.

Results from Bathurst Regional Council’s 2006 community survey stated that 43% of respondents would be prepared to pay an extra $150 per year in garbage fees for a 2 wheelie bin collection system.

‘According to the community survey just over 50% of the community uses Council’s current monthly recycling service with a large percentage in support of paying higher fees for better recycling services, we want to see usage levels increase to over 75%.’

‘The review will determine the most beneficial recycling option for the Region based on a cost benefit analysis, providing Council with options for sustainable recycling strategies that can be implemented and monitored in future years.’

‘The outcome of increased recycling will not only achieve a more sustainable use of the earth’s resources, but extend the life of our landfill, saving the future expense of a new landfill site for our children and their children,’ Cr Mann said.

Bathurst Regional Council is under contract until July 2007 for the current recycling arrangements within the City.

Possible recycling options include the introduction of a 240 litre co-mingled bin, retaining the current level of service or increasing the current level of service.

‘There are positives and negatives to all options, so with the community’s support Council hopes to implement a recycling strategy that will benefit the Bathurst Region, be cost effective and one that the community are willing to embrace,’ Cr Mann added.

Residents can forward ideas and comments to the Manager at Bathurst Waste and Water Services, PMB 17 Bathurst 2795, or call 6333 6111.