We are trialing a more environmentally sustainable waste and recycling service of weekly Food and Green Organics (FOGO) collections. Weekly FOGO collection will support Charles Sturt residents to divert their food waste into the green bin, which will be collected weekly (changing from the current fortnightly collection). The frequency of collection is currently one of the biggest barriers to food waste recycling, resulting in over 35% of compostable food waste ending up in landfill each year.
Our Council endorsed the trial this week, which will be an opt-out trial of 1,000 households. Residents can choose to opt-out of the trial if they do not wish to participate, and can remain on the current three bin service collection.
Participation in the trial is 100% optional.
Residents who are identified in the trial and who are keen to participate can request a larger waste bin (ie those with large families, children in nappies).
We have not yet identified the trial areas within our City. Once potential trial areas have been selected, all households will receive direct communication explaining the trial in detail and residents can then choose to opt-out of the trial should they wish.
This trial follows on from a number of successful trials of weekly FOGO services across Australia, including the recent local FOGO trial at the City of Holdfast Bay.
CEO Paul Sutton welcomed the trial, and said the decision to offer a trial was a unanimous decision of Council.
"All of us at the City of Charles Sturt are excited by this opportunity. It is a step change towards ensuring we can reduce the amount of waste going to landfill, in a way that is cost effective and prioritises our residents and their needs," Paul Sutton said.
"This approach will also enhance the volume and quality of mulch that can be created by our partner Jeffries Soil who processes Charles Sturt's green organic waste. This is an important and fantastic further step for our circular economy," he said.
The trial is due to commence in April/May 2023. Once identified, residents in trial areas will receive direct communication regarding the trial.