Waste grant awarded to Pemberton recycling station

6/12/01
A $48,800 Waste Management and Recycling Fund grant will contribute to the construction of a waste transfer station and recycling centre at Pemberton, Environment and Heritage Minister Judy Edwards announced today.
The Shire of Manjimup project will enable the closure of the existing landfill site in the area, which is presently at risk of polluting the immediate environment.
Dr Edwards said the recycling centre would have a waste compactor, allowing for the compaction and transport of waste to Manjimup, and facilitate the removal of recyclable paper and cardboard.
"At present there are limited recycling facilities in Pemberton, and the completion of this project will ultimately divert large amounts of cardboard, plastics, glass, paper, aluminum cans and scrap metal from going to landfill, contributing to national waste reduction and recycling targets," she said.
"The transfer station will also allow the deposit and compaction of recyclables from Northcliffe and Windy Harbour.
"The transport of recyclable materials from country shires is not always economically viable. However the Shire of Manjimup hopes to change this by compressing bulky recyclables and achieving the maximum weight per load.
"The intention is to provide a model for rural councils facing similar transport costs and long distances over which to haul their recyclables.
"The project will inevitably be of interest to councils considering building waste transfer stations and closing landfill sites."
Dr Edwards said the Waste Management and Recycling Fund collected almost $5million from the landfill levy each year, which was used to sponsor waste reduction and recycling activities throughout the State.
About $7.4million in grants had been paid to community groups, businesses and local governments since the fund was established.
Applications for Waste Management and Recycling grants are invited every two months. Further information is available from the Department of Environmental Protection on 9222 8608.
Minister's office 9220 5050