Will Sydney rubbish country NSW?

Tuesday, 08 February 2000 10:00

"Such high levels of diversion mean new megatips in country NSW are not necessary and new jobs can be created in a range of new industries and technologies," said Jeff Angel, Director of the Centre.

"Sydney can take the environmentally responsible route on waste management but it will need the support of key stakeholders and regulators. In this regard we are disappointed in the apparent support from high levels within the Environment Protection Authority for more megadumps. This is a dinosaur view of the world."

"The NSW Government inquiry into alternative waste management is due to report in March. The days should be numbered for megatip schemes when we now have alternative technologies and practices."

"Our plan calls for urgent action to be taken in the next 12 months to reset regulatory systems and provide clear strategic direction to set waste management on the path of environmental, social and economic sustainability. Over the next few years while new infrastructure and practices are put into place, we can use existing landfill space in Sydney, rather impose a 50 year megatip on country NSW (eg at Woodlawn or in the Hunter Valley) for Sydney's waste."

Other aspects of the 20 year plan include:
* Decentralised sites for pre-treatment of wastes for separation and reuse;
* Ban on green waste to landfill;
* Enforceable industry waste reduction plans promoting cleaner production;
* Targets for waste reduction by government departments;
* Large scale composting facilities.