Edward River Council has taken out a NSW LGA 2024 Excellence in the Environment Award in the category of Behaviour Change in Waste for its innovative Three Bin Project roll-out.
The award, supported by the NSW Environment Protection Authority, highlights the outstanding achievements of local government organisations in managing and protecting
the environment.
“This is great recognition of all the planning and hard work that has gone into the Three Bin Project over the last 18 months – by both Council teams and our community,” said Mayor, Ashley Hall.
The Council was one of five finalists in the category and picked up the award for managing a dynamic leap from a single-bin system to an industry-leading three-bin kerbside collection system.
The bin system came into effect in Deniliquin from 1 July, supported by intensive education and engagement to reduce contamination, and required major changes to residents mindsets and waste behaviours.
The project was initiated in response to the significant challenge of an ageing landfill nearing capacity, Council said in a statement.
This initiative was critical to enhancing waste management practices and ensuring the landfill’s continued functionality, it said.
Council collaborated with a contractor to move from a single bin system to a three-bin system, enhancing efficiency and customer service outcomes, and encouraging sustainable habits with the introduction of landfill gate fees.
“The project has prioritised ethical waste treatment, the restructuring of Council operations and driven significant behavioural shifts among Deniliquin residents,” said Council Interim CEO, Gary Arnold.
“There has been a marked reduction in landfill drop-offs by residents, with preliminary data
showing over 50% less waste sent to landfill.”
“This is likely to lead to decreased operational costs and could potentially extend the landfill’s lifespan by over 10 years,” said Mr Arnold.
