Recent data showing WA as having the lowest recycling rate in the nation could point to ineffective use of funds being collected through the State Government’s landfill levy, according to the Western Australian Local Government Association (WALGA).

 

The levy was increased by 300% in 2009, with the majority of funds received allocated to general expenditure budgets instead of the previous system whereby all funds collected were used for waste reduction initiatives.

 

WALGA President, Mayor Troy Pickard, called for a return to the previous system, citing WA’s low recycling rate and significant waste management challenges as needing urgent attention.

 

“There are a great number of initiatives which could be implemented should these funds be invested back into waste infrastructure, research and education, all of which are urgently needed,” Mayor Pickard said.      

 

Mayor Pickard said that whilst the sector welcomed the recent announcement for an allocation of $7m over five years to assist Local Governments with implementing Strategic Waste Management Plans, a lot more support was needed to progress the State’s vision of Towards Zero Waste .

 

“We have presented the Minister with a range of areas that need support which could potentially be funded through monies raised from the landfill levy,” he said.

 

“Initiatives include the development of local markets and infrastructure for recycled materials; a needs analysis to address illegal dumping and a campaign to increase recycling rates.”

 

“Particularly important is funding for alternative waste treatment technologies, which divert waste from landfill and turn it into products such as compost which can improve our sandy soils.”

 

Mayor Pickard expressed Local Government’s support for a Container Deposit System for Western Australia as one avenue by which to help reduce litter and increase recycling rates, as well as initiatives targeted at the reduction of waste from the construction and demolition sector.

 

“We encourage the State Government to urgently reconsider the allocation of the funds raised through the landfill levy and redirect them to crucial waste management initiatives.”