Organic waste bins get the tick

Residents who sign up to the service will receive a third, 240-litre wheelie bin for a one-off registration fee of $65. The motion was moved by Alderman Janie Finlay, who said it was an item which had been before council for some time and council had had some great conversation about it.

“I think through those conversation we have got to an improved position,” she said.

“I think this is a fantastic complementary service to the waste management that we already offer at the kerbside. With the consultation that occurred, the number of people that have indicated that they will participate is a wonderful indication of the success [it will have].”

Alderman Danny Gibson said it was important to promote that the new bin will be optional, and resident do not have to sign up.

“I think this adds further weight to the great things we are doing holistically to reduce the amount of waste going into landfill,” he said.

The cost of landfill was one of the biggest surprise for Alderman Soward when he joined council, and he agreed it was exciting to be doing something to reduce landfill.

It is expected the bins will help divert 32 per cent of City of Launceston waste to landfill. Alderman Soward also highlighted the importance of residents receiving a standard size bin.

“It might sound like a small thing, but it means that we are the same and that we don’t have someone who ends up with a Rolls Royce bin and someone who ends up with a clapped-out bin… and I can imagine it would make it difficult for collection,” he said.

Residents who opt in for a new bin will receive a registration pack which includes a kitchen caddy and educational material.