Central Coast Council is encouraging the community to have their say to help define future objectives and waste diversion targets that will shape the first Council Waste Management Strategy for the region.

Currently around 45 per cent of waste generated by Central Coast households is recycled through the use of yellow and green lidded bins, and this Strategy aims to greatly reduce the other 55 per cent that is sent to landfill.

Council Director Roads Transport Drainage and Waste, Boris Bolgoff said there were a number of options available to process waste for other uses instead of sending it to landfill.

“There are a variety of methods for different waste streams that we can look at implementing into future practice to help reduce our waste,” Mr Bolgoff said.

“Solutions to help divert waste from landfill will be considered from many perspectives including cost, carbon emissions, community acceptance, contribution towards diversion of waste and local markets that can purchase recycled products.

“This is why it is critical the community have their say, as their responses will help us put together an action plan with recommendations of solutions to investigate.

“So make sure to give us your trashy ideas and don’t let your say go to waste!”

Mayor Jane Smith said Council is committed to working with the community to find innovative solutions to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfill.

“Reducing waste to landfill is one of the key challenges we face as government and community on a global and local scale,” Mayor Smith said.

“We are already doing our bit by using recycled material in our road works, reducing single use plastics at events and installing renewable energy in our buildings, but there is always more we can do, particularly in our household domestic waste.

“What I am interested in is what the community will think will help them reduce their waste to landfill. Together we can really make a difference to our local environment.

“Around a third of residents’ red bin waste right now is made up of food waste, with another 11 per cent made up of acceptable recyclable materials that can be placed in yellow bins.

“If you haven’t already, I urge you to go online and let us know what is important to you when it comes to the waste services we offer.”

Those after more information before filling in the online survey are encouraged to attend one of the pop-up sessions being held on:

• Thursday 23 May 2019 - Lake Haven Shopping Centre, 10am-2pm
• Saturday 25 May 2019 - EDSAC Oval, Bateau Bay, 8am-2pm
• Thursday 30 May 2019 - Deepwater Plaza, Woy Woy, 10am-12pm (this is a Council pop-up session where residents have the opportunity to speak to senior staff)
• Saturday 1 June 2019 - Umina Oval, 8am-2pm

Visit yourvoiceourcoast.com for further information and to have your say. The first round of consultation closes Wednesday 5 June, with further consultation opportunities to follow.

ENDS