Free waste minimisation lessons for businesses

Published: 25 Jun 2019

Mackay businesses can find out what options are available to reduce their waste before the introduction of the Queensland Government’s waste levy.

All commercial waste generated by businesses in the Mackay region will incur the $75 per tonne levy from July 1.

Councillor Laurence Bonaventura said council was offering businesses free waste minimisation lessons to help reduce the impact of the state government’s levy.

“The sessions will go through a step-by-step guide on how business owners and operators can

reduce waste, separate waste streams and recycle more to help reduce waste disposal costs,” he said.

“Every action, even simple changes, can make a difference to the amount of waste you generate.”

Cr Bonaventura said the levy would not affect the cost of residents putting out their kerbside wheelie-bins.

“The Queensland Government was providing advance payments to local councils to offset the levy on household waste going to landfill,” he said.

“But, this is a good time for everyone to boost their recycling efforts by finding out what recycling opportunities are available to them.”

Charitable organisations will be eligible to apply for exemptions for waste donated that cannot be reused or recycled.

Council does not issue or approve exemptions, this is a State Government responsibility.

For free tailored advice on reducing business waste, energy and water, visit ecoBiz.

To register for a council waste minimisation education session, visit www.mackay.qld.gov.au/businesswaste.

Photo Caption: Council’s Waste Education Officer Fiona Paterson teaches Roxie Bovey from Foodspace how to reduce her businesses waste before the Waste Levy begins.