E-waste ban will maximise resources

Gippsland is preparing for the Victorian Government’s upcoming ban on e-waste to landfill.

E-waste refers to any item with a plug, battery or cord that is no longer working or wanted.

Most items contain valuable materials that can be recovered and reused, contributing to economic and sustainability outcomes across the state and in Gippsland.

Recovering these materials also helps alleviate the strain put on the environment by stopping hazardous elements leaching into the ground when dumped in landfill.

From 1 July, electricals and electronics will no longer be accepted in any kerbside bin and must go to a designated e-waste drop-off point.

Keeping e-waste out of landfill and recovering the elements which can be further used is a key component in Gippsland’s commitment to maximising resources and minimising waste.

Gippsland Waste and Resource Recovery Group executive officer Matthew Peake said that various e-waste drop-off points and schemes already exist across Gippsland and many have been upgraded in recent months.

“Gippsland councils have been accepting electrical and electronic waste at most transfer stations for many years now and, ahead of the ban, the state government has invested $15 million to help councils across the state to upgrade their e-waste collection and storage facilities to ensure greater access to drop-off points,” Mr Peake said.

E-waste is growing three times faster than general municipal waste in Australia, this is due to increased technology trends, reduced product lifespan and consumer demand for new products.

“Most people are used to taking their larger unwanted electricals, like fridges and televisions, to transfer stations,” Mr Peake said.

“The same practice now applies to smaller items such as phones, electronic toys and small appliances.

“We understand that this is a change and will take a bit of getting used to, but Gippslanders have a strong history when it comes to adapting to new systems and services related to waste and resource recovery.”

Mr Peake said, “Residents are encouraged to check with their local council regarding the how, when, where and how much of e-waste drop-off in their particular area.”

To learn more about e-waste and find details of your nearest e-waste drop-off point go to ewaste.vic.gov.au or visit your local council’s website.