Uralla will soon have 20 new bin baskets to catch the 10-cent drink containers that too often end up in landfill.
Uralla Shire Council has secured funding through the NSW Return and Earn Bin Basket Program. The baskets will be fitted to selected public bins along Bridge Street and in Alma Park.
They give people a simple way to separate eligible refundable containers from general waste while out and about.
Council has received all 20 baskets and is carrying out pre-installation audits. Installation is expected to start next month.
“This is a practical initiative that makes it easier for people to do the right thing when they’re out and about in our community,” said Mayor Robert Bell.
“By providing dedicated collection points for eligible drink containers, we’re helping to reduce litter, increase recycling and keep valuable materials out of landfill.”
Mayor Bell said the project supported Council’s commitment to sustainability and waste reduction.
“Uralla residents have a strong commitment to caring for our environment, and these new bin baskets will make it even easier for everyone to contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable Shire.”
Council Environment and Waste Manager Dr Isaac Arah said the baskets were designed to capture containers that might otherwise land in general waste bins.
“Many drink containers still end up in landfill despite being eligible for recycling through the Return and Earn scheme,” Dr Arah said.
“The new baskets provide a simple and visible reminder that these containers have value and can be recovered for recycling.”
Dr Arah said Bridge Street and Alma Park were chosen because they are high-use locations.
“Installing the baskets in high-use locations, such as Bridge Street and Alma Park, will help maximise participation and make recycling more convenient for both residents and visitors.”
Council will monitor how the baskets perform once they are installed.
“If the initiative proves successful, Council will look to apply for additional funding to expand the program to other high-use locations across the Shire,” Dr Arah said.
The Return and Earn scheme pays a 10-cent refund for eligible drink containers. Council will provide updates on installation locations and timing as the project progresses.
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