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Push to change FOGO bin mandate as Australia races against time in landfill crisis

“We need a critical mass of councils to make it happen.”

The FOGO Initiative: A Critical Mass of Councils Needed

The FOGO initiative, which stands for Food Organics and Garden Organics, aims to increase the collection and processing of food waste and garden organic materials. This initiative has been gaining momentum in recent years, with many councils across Australia adopting the program.

NSW households increasingly turning to FOGO bins to reduce waste and promote sustainability.

The Rise of FOGO Bins in NSW

In recent years, the New South Wales (NSW) government has been actively promoting the use of Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) bins. The initiative aims to reduce the amount of organic waste sent to landfills and promote sustainable waste management practices. As a result, the number of households using FOGO bins has increased significantly.

Key Statistics

  • About 69% of households in NSW have FOGO bins. Less than half of the state’s 128 councils offer FOGO bins. Many inner city councils have adopted the program, contributing to the growth in FOGO bin usage. ## Benefits of FOGO Bins*
  • Benefits of FOGO Bins

    FOGO bins have numerous benefits for households, the environment, and the economy. Some of the key advantages include:

  • Reduced greenhouse gas emissions: By composting organic waste, households can reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future. Conservation of landfill space: FOGO bins help to divert organic waste from landfills, reducing the need for new landfills and conserving existing ones. Cost savings: Composting organic waste can save households money on waste disposal costs and reduce the need for expensive waste management services. * Improved soil health: Compost produced from FOGO bins can be used to improve soil health, fertility, and structure, benefiting gardens and agricultural land. ## Challenges and Opportunities**
  • Challenges and Opportunities

    While FOGO bins have many benefits, there are also challenges and opportunities to be addressed. Some of the key issues include:

  • Education and awareness: Many households may not be aware of the benefits of FOGO bins or how to use them effectively.

    The EPA’s new guidelines were introduced in 2019, and they have been causing confusion among councils and residents alike.

    The Origins of FOGO

    A New Approach to Waste Management

    The concept of FOGO, or Food Organics and Garden Organics, has been around for several years. It’s a waste management approach that aims to divert organic waste from landfill and instead compost it.

    He believes that a national policy would be more effective in driving the adoption of composting across the country. Gary also believes that the lack of education and awareness about composting is a major barrier to its adoption. He suggests that a national education program would be beneficial in raising awareness and promoting the practice of composting among the public.

    The Rise of Composting in Australia

    Composting has become a growing trend in Australia, with many cities and states taking steps to promote the practice. South Australia, in particular, has been at the forefront of this movement, introducing innovative measures to encourage composting.

    A National Policy for Composting

    Gary, a composting advocate, believes that a national policy would be the most effective way to drive the adoption of composting across the country. He argues that piecemeal rules and regulations at a federal, state, and local level have been holding back the nation’s transition to fully embracing composting. Key benefits of a national policy: + Simplifies regulations and reduces confusion + Encourages consistency across the country + Provides a clear framework for implementation + Supports the development of a national composting strategy Gary suggests that a national policy would provide a clear framework for the implementation of composting practices, reducing confusion and promoting consistency across the country.

    The Compostable Revolution

    The compostable revolution has been gaining momentum in Australia, with a growing number of consumers and businesses embracing the benefits of compostable products. However, despite the increasing popularity of compostable products, there are still significant challenges to overcome before the industry can reach its full potential.

    Challenges in the Compostable Industry

  • Lack of awareness: Many Australians are not aware of the benefits of compostable products or the importance of proper composting practices. Inconsistent regulation: The regulation of compostable products is inconsistent across different states and territories, creating confusion and uncertainty for consumers and businesses.

    Greenhouse gas emissions from organic waste pose a significant threat to the environment.

    The Problem of Methane Emissions

    Methane is a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. It is released through various human activities, including the decomposition of organic waste. When organic waste decomposes, it releases methane, which can have devastating effects on the environment. In fact, the production of methane from organic waste is estimated to be around 3.3% of global greenhouse gas emissions.

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