By Moana Ellis, Local Democracy Reporting
A record amount of would-be waste was diverted from landfill in Taumarunui last month.
The council-run Taumarunui Resource Recovery Centre kept 13.3 tonnes of material from ending up in landfill during September.
The record weight diversion was made up of 7681 items that found new homes or were reused or repurposed.
Sustainability facilitator Emily Jasmine said the achievement was a significant step toward reducing the environmental impact of waste and would deliver savings for the community.
“By diverting 13.3 tonnes of material from landfill, we’re not just protecting our environment, we’re also saving our community from the costs associated with dumping waste, putting money back into people’s pockets and extending the life of valuable resources.”
Each item saved from landfill reduced waste levy costs, transport expenses for shipping waste out of the district to Hampton Downs, and fees for people who would otherwise pay to dispose of materials.
Ruapehu District Council has committed to an aspirational vision of producing “zero waste” by 2040.
Jasmine said the Resource Recovery team was boosted by 62.25 hours of work by volunteers.
“Their commitment to this work is extraordinary, and their passion for sustainability is truly making a difference in our community.”
Jasmine’s role includes community education, such as speaking to children at childcare centres and schools about worm farming, sustainability and resource recovery.
“Our work isn’t just about what we divert today, but about the future we’re creating by teaching the next generation how to care for the environment.”
Awa FM – Te Reo Irirangi o Whanganui
For more of our people, our stories, our way, click News or follow us on Facebook.
