Waste Not, Want Not - Present and Future Solid Waste Management in Northern NSW

Abstract

A recurrent problem across Northern NSW is the limited capacity of available landfill sites and the need to identify waste reduction methods. This paper highlights the need for an accurate and comprehensive evaluation of the waste management strategies currently offered in Northern NSW. In doing so it identifies both the strengths and options available to local councils for the improvement of their solid waste disposal strategies. Specific emphasis is placed on less costly, more efficient alternatives, or less voluminous, more sustainable methods of waste management, with community participation being regarded as crucial to any effect waste management strategy. It is also noted that whilst an environmentally conscious public has by and large embraced recycling initiatives, reassessment of the reduction methodology to target excessive consumption is now warranted. Data has been sourced from ten representative councils across Northern NSW including Hastings, Coffs Harbour City, Grafton City, Gunnedah, Lismore City, Inverell, Moree Plains, Narrabri, Tamworth City and Armidale Dumaresq Councils. Information canvasses the differing waste disposal strategies and initiatives offered and proposed: the total volume going to landfill; the recycling programs offered; the percentage recycled and community participation rates; extraction and use of green waste; and current and proposed education strategies for the reduction of waste going to landfill.