The NSW Government has committed increased funds towards the Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) and the state’s Environmental Protection Protection Agency (EPA) as part of a $1.8 billion environmental package.
Key programs relevant to the waste sector include $184 million to continue to support the EPA as an independent regulator and $3.4 million to introduce a CDS, scheduled for December 1 of this year.
The CDS funding is part of a $72 million package dedicated to transforming waste management in NSW, with the investment set to help the State Government reach its goal to reduce litter volume by 40 per cent by 2020.
Environment and Heritage Minister Gabrielle Upton said the NSW Government’s priority was to protect and preserve the state’s environment for future generations.
“This year’s budget investment will go towards, protecting threatened species, preserving the state’s national park estate, helping households reduce energy use while driving down energy bills and protecting the state’s Aboriginal history,” she said.
- $1.9 million towards the Broken Hill Lead Smart program
- $34 million across national parks, primarily for upgrading facilities, amenities and safety and visitor experiences
- $44 million for private land conservation ($240 million over five years and $70 million annually in ongoing funding)
- $41 million to assist local councils to prepare and implement coastal and floodplain management plans and for works to restore and protect coastal and estuarine environments
- $29 million to conserve and enjoy the state’s unique Aboriginal and historic heritage
- $41 million to upgrade public parklands and gardens, this includes $15 million for Centennial Parklands to upgrade and improve park facilities and $11 million for a park improvement program at Western Sydney Parklands