Banyule community slams proposed six-bin recycling shake-up

Infrastructure Victoria is suggesting six bins could solve the state’s recycling crisis, but the Banyule community is not as open to the idea. See what they have to say.

Most local council areas currently use a three-bin system.

Households could have to sort their rubbish into six different bins under a radical plan put to the State Government.

But Banyule households aren’t buying in.

Infrastructure Victoria has floated the idea in a new report to guide long-term changes to the state’s recycling system, saying almost 90 per cent of Victorians are open to changing how they sort their waste.

But in a Facebook poll conducted by Heidelberg Leader, only 31 per cent per cent of people said they would support a six-bin system.

Roasanna’s Kent Laxfors voted in the poll and said space would be a big factor.

“Where to put six bins? Imagine the chaos at units when they all go out,” Mr Laxfors said.

“I think the idea is good but they need a better way to empty them or another type of bin that doesn’t take up as much space.”

Nicki P, from Heidelberg, said those championing the idea had clearly never lived in an apartment block or tiny unit.

“I’d hate to see the street on bin night,” she said.

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Under the plan, households would be given five separate recycling bins — for organics, plastics, glass, metals, and paper and card — along with their regular waste bin.

The overhaul would mark a major change to the three-bin model — one for recycling, one for waste and one for garden material.

Banyule Mayor Cr Wayne Phillips said council agreed more needed to be done to improve waste management and recycling practices.

“We are open to learning more about practices that will reduce waste generation and better manage all waste,” he said.

“Council’s Towards Zero Waste Management Plan sets out Banyule’s waste management priorities until 2023 and includes improving recycling practices.”

The council’s draft Corporate Emissions Reduction Plan is now open for comment on Shaping Banyule.

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