WA organisations funded to divert waste from landfill

WA Environment Minister Albert Jacob has announced $690,000 in funding to support waste management projects to divert waste from landfill.

Announced as part of the Community and Industry Engagement Program, the grants will be made available through the Waste Authority for industry, local governments, state government agencies, regional councils, peak bodies, research and educational institutes, and community groups — organisations which champion better waste behaviours and community awareness. 

“This program is an opportunity to gain financial backing for projects that meet the government’s waste management priority areas, including planning, best practice, education, engagement and data measurement,” said Jacob.

“The program will cover up to 50% of the cost of a project or event, with the first round of grants focusing on projects and events that align with the 2016–17 business plan priorities in the Western Australian Waste Strategy: Creating the right environment.”

The program also encourages engagement between different groups to share waste expertise and experience across the community. Jacob said, “Organisations may identify gaps in their areas of expertise and use this funding to tackle issues such as reducing waste generation, diverting waste from landfill and community education.”

Jacob said the program is expected to help WA meet its 2020 targets of diverting 65% of municipal solid waste, 70% of commercial and industrial waste and 75% of construction and demolition waste from landfill.

Applications for the first round of funding close on 8 December at 5 pm. For more information and to apply, visit www.wasteauthority.wa.gov.au/programs/cie.