City’s recycling to be examined
High contamination rates in Porirua’s kerbside recycling has prompted an initiative that will see “recycling ambassadors” checking recycling bin contents before collection.
Due to a rising level of contaminated items in the recycling – costing between $6000 and $8000 a month to remove – the ambassadors will be checking what’s being put out for collection.
A month-long audit starts next week and will gather information and data to help identify specific areas where Porirua’s high contamination levels are and target our education and support for those residents.
Following the audit we will be introducing a 3-Strikes process. This means that if we find nonrecyclable or contaminated items in your bin, you’ll get a sticker – if you receive three stickers, you could lose your bin.
Similar initiatives are occurring in other cities, including Hamilton, Christchurch and Dunedin, with positive behaviour changes being experienced and less loads ending up in the landfill.
The recycling industry relies on good quality, clean recyclable material, says David Down, Porirua’s Manager Water and Waste.
“Material is hand-sorted before it goes through the machines and we’re regularly seeing hazardous items such as dirty nappies, sanitary items, broken glass and rotting meat.”
“This is something we all need to do better – sending recycling to the landfill costs the city and the environment, and has health and safety implications for staff collecting the bins and at the sorting facility,” he says.
“We can all play our part by checking what’s in and what’s out. Clean and rinse your glass, plastics and cans, and remember not to put in lids or soft plastics.
“If we work together we can make a positive difference.”
A recycling ambassador is currently in place at the Bulk Recycling Facility at Spicer Landfill, and now we have a high quality of materials being made available for recycling, Mr Down says.
More detailed information on the 3-Strikes process will be delivered to households following the audit.
Follow: Facebook / Twitter
Visit: poriruacity.govt.nz
Call: (04) 237 5089
Stay sun-safe and well-read this spring
Longer days and warmer weather are fast approaching!
Make the most of your Sundays with a subscription to the Sunday Star-Times. From just $51, enjoy gripping investigations, in-depth analysis, and exclusive subscriber rewards. Plus, for September only, receive a free Antipodes Supernatural SPF50+ Ceramide Silk Facial Sunscreen worth over $60.
Don't miss out on this unbeatable offer—subscribe today! *Print T&Cs apply.
Neighbourly's Online Spring Garage Sale
On Saturday, 28th of September we'll be holding an online garage sale and you are invited - both to score some bargains and to sell your wares!
The sun is starting to shine and perhaps you're ready to part with your winter goods, get involved by listing your goods ahead of Saturday's event. And come back on Saturday to find new treasures.
List your items now. Head to Market.
Here's Thursday's thinker!
I am lighter than air, but a hundred people cannot lift me. What am I?
Do you think you know the answer to our daily riddle? Don't spoil it for your neighbours! Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm.
Want to stop seeing riddles in your newsfeed?
Head here and hover on the Following button on the top right of the page (and it will show Unfollow) and then click it. If it is giving you the option to Follow, then you've successfully unfollowed the Riddles page.
Loading…
