Council to apply for pilot of wire basket recycling units
WOLLONDILLY Shire Council will apply to the NSW Return and Earn scheme to undertake a pilot of wire basket recycling units on public litter bins in high-use locations across the Shire, following consideration of a report into the feasibility of the program at Tuesday’s meeting.
The report outlined potential pilot locations, indicative costs, operational and safety considerations, partnership opportunities and proposed evaluation measures for Council to take part in the scheme, which enables eligible drink containers to be redeemed for a 10-cent refund.
The Wollondilly Shire currently has four Return and Earn drop off locations where residents can return eligible containers for a 10-cent refund.
Mayor Matt Gould said: “The use of wire baskets attached to bins will make it easier for people to place their recyclable containers separately from the general rubbish,increasing recovery and discouraging unsafe bin rummaging.
“The program should reduce litter and keep our streets cleaner, while making it easier to recover eligible drink containers and support community fundraising initiatives.”
“Initial advice from Return and Earn NSW is that the program covers the cost of the wire baskets, transport and promotional materials. Council would be responsible for installation, ongoing maintenance, local promotion, and completing the pre and post installation audits.
Return and Earn NSW has advised that applications for a further round of the basket program are expected to reopen in July 2026.
Following the trial, Council will receive a further update evaluating the outcomes of the pilot, including operational performance, costs, maintenance requirements,community feedback, safety considerations and recommendations regarding broader implementation across the Shire.
Article Details
Editor Profile
editor
Publisher
Michael Walls
michael@accessnews.com.au
0407 783 413
