$1.16 million helps councils team up to cut waste and costs

Seven council-led initiatives will share $1.16 million to develop smarter, more cost-efficient waste and recycling services in the Northern Rivers, Hunter, Riverina, Central West, South West Sydney and South-East regions.

The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA)’s Joint Procurement Funded Support program offers eligible groups up to $500,000 per project to access tailored advice, build partnerships and plan future waste infrastructure and services.

NSW EPA Executive Director of Programs and Innovation Alexandra Geddes said the grants give councils and regional waste groups the backing they need to pool knowledge, boost capability and strengthen resources.

“Regional councils consistently tell us that joining forces is key to keeping costs down and managing increasing waste volumes,” Geddes said.

“This investment helps them team up and design waste systems that are innovative, resilient and future-focused, while supporting a circular economy.”

The funded proposals include exploring shared food organics and garden organics (FOGO) collection and processing services across areas including Cowra, Weddin, Hilltops, Lithgow, Blue Mountains and the Hawkesbury.

Work is also underway to deliver a Hunter Central Coast Regional Waste Infrastructure Strategy, identify opportunities for shared problem waste collections around Canberra, and explore an organics biorefinery facility to recycle FOGO and wastewater for Campbelltown, Wollondilly and Wingecarribee.

Geddes said the range of successful ideas shows applicants are looking beyond local boundaries.

“In total, these projects will support collaboration and knowledge-sharing across 37 councils. By taking a broader approach, they can reduce duplication, find cost efficiencies and put the right infrastructure in place for the next decade and beyond.

“These efforts show real leadership – councils are stepping up, thinking ahead and finding smarter solutions to deal with rising waste pressures.”

Eligible applicants included all New South Wales councils, regional waste groups, regional organisations of councils and joint organisations.

For more information, visit: www.epa.nsw.gov.au