18-03-2025
Waste management is a critical issue in Australia, affecting our environment and communities. Unfortunately, many misconceptions surround this topic, which can hinder effective waste disposal and recycling. The Upper Lachlan Shire Council is dedicated to educating the public and providing practical waste management solutions. This article aims to debunk common waste management myths and offers valuable tips and best practices for both residential and commercial settings.
Waste Management
Effective waste management is everyone’s responsibility, and understanding the facts empowers us to make informed decisions that contribute to a more sustainable future. Misconceptions can lead to improper disposal, contamination of recycling streams, and a general lack of engagement in responsible waste handling.
Waste Management Tips: Small Changes, Big Impact
Many people believe that individual actions make little difference in the grand scheme of waste management, but this is a significant myth. Small changes made by individuals and businesses can collectively create a substantial positive impact.
How to Manage Waste Properly: Sorting and Disposal
A prevalent myth is that all waste goes to the same place regardless of how it is sorted, which is untrue. Proper waste segregation is crucial for effective recycling and disposal. Here’s how to manage waste properly:
Red Bin: Residents and businesses that have access to garbage collection services are provided with a red-lid bin. You can place anything in your red bin that is non-recyclable or non-hazardous. Anything disposed of in the red bin will ultimately end up in a landfill. We all buy, use, and consume goods daily, and we share the responsibility of managing our waste at the end of this process. What you use, you must dispose of properly.
Green Bin: Residents with access to kerbside green waste collection services receive a green-lid bin. This service is intended for disposing of small tree pruning’s (thin branches up to 1 meter long), flowers, weeds, and grass clippings from home. Using this service helps divert a significant amount of green waste from landfills, reducing carbon emissions and saving valuable landfill space.
Yellow Bin: Residents with access to a kerbside yellow waste collection services should use this bin for recyclable materials such as paper, plastic, and glass. It’s essential to ensure that your recycling is of the highest standard because one major challenge is contamination. When non-recyclable materials, food waste, or other contaminants are mixed with recyclables, they can compromise the whole batch.
Practical Recycling Tips: Reduce, Reuse, & Recycle
Reduce: The most effective approach is to minimise waste generation in the first place. This can involve purchasing products with minimal packaging, choosing reusable containers, and composting food scraps.
Reuse: Look for innovative ways to reuse items rather than discarding them. For example, glass jars can be used for storage, old clothes can be repurposed into rags, and furniture can be upcycled.
Recycle: Familiarise yourself with the Council’s recycling guidelines and ensure that items are clean and sorted correctly to avoid contamination.
Many items, including scrap metal, oil, batteries, and yard waste, can be disposed of free of charge throughout the year, such as during the recent Clean Up Australia Day. Printer cartridges and mobile phones can be recycled at Council offices or participating Australia Post locations at no cost.
By understanding the facts and dispelling common myths, we can all contribute to more effective waste management. Small changes in our daily routines, combined with innovative waste management solutions, can have a significant impact.
The Council provides these services and facilities to help our community manage waste effectively. It is a large task, and as a small regional community, we greatly appreciate your assistance in better managing all areas of waste. If you have any questions regarding waste management, please contact Council on 48301000.