Ten innovative council-led projects will share in more than $2.3 million for initiatives that rethink how we address problematic waste such as batteries, white goods, and mattresses.
The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has announced the recipients of the fourth round of the Local Government Waste Solutions Fund, designed to help councils drive clever circular projects and improve waste management.
Successful grantees include metropolitan councils such as the Inner West, Blacktown, Canterbury-Bankstown and Liverpool, as well as regional councils in Port Macquarie and Muswellbrook.
Regional groups or joint organisations of councils in the Hunter, Illawarra, Northern Rivers and South Sydney will also benefit from funding to pursue ambitious projects, driven by collaboration and shared insight.
NSW EPA Executive Director of Engagement, Digital and Innovation Alexandra Geddes said councils are on the cutting edge when it comes to solving some of our trickiest waste problems.
"From devices to scan for batteries in trucks, to turning shredded mattresses into pavers, we're supporting innovative ideas that will increase reuse and change the way we manage our waste," Ms Geddes said.
"This program has real world results that benefit communities. For example, one Sydney-based project will ensure new apartment developments are better designed for waste collections and storage, while another will focus on diverting useable whitegoods from the tip.
"The fact is, we're running out of landfill space and that's why it's so important to collaborate as we create a circular economy in NSW."
The Local Government Waste Solutions Fund is delivered under the state's Waste and Sustainable Materials Strategy. In total, the Fund has provided more than $9 million to support 44 projects across the state.
