By Alistair Gray
It is great news for many Moreton Bay residents, with the introduction of a green bin fortnightly collection service starting from December 2, 2024. The new bins mean no more trips to the tip for many or struggling to squeeze your garden waste into your red bin.
Generally, the community has been very positive about the new initiative, despite the extra $67 per year charge, with many asking what took the council so long to implement the service. Other cities have had a similar service for years and we seem to be behind. As for me, I think it is excellent value and well worth having. What else can you get for $1.29 per week? It removes hassle, is easy to use and it is sustainable.
What can go in the bins?
The bins will take your organic waste, including tree, shrub or plant branches (cut to fit), leaves and other garden trimmings, grass clippings, weeds, plants and flowers.
However, please no plastic or plastic bags, general waste or food scraps, compostable packaging and containers, soil or potting mix, gravel, bricks, concrete or rocks, potted plants, garden tools and accessories like plant pots, treated timber, asbestos-containing material, animal waste such as droppings or manure – no materials other than garden organics.
The good news is that the initiative will divert 15,000 tonnes of waste from landfill each year and help the city reach its goal of zero emissions by 2039.
Opting out
Effectively, the City of Moreton Bay has made taking a GO Bin mandatory, with the only exception being if you use a gardener that removes garden organics from your property, use a commercial organics collection contractor or your land area is smaller than 300 square metres. You had to opt out between July 10 and August 10, 2024 and that time to opt out has now expired.
Residents’ concerns
Some residents who compost or have larger blocks who self-manage their organics and cannot opt out have expressed concern about the new system and the impost of the extra cost. Others who have a small amount of waste don’t want an extra bin to manage and the additional cost. The new system does not cater for these residents. However, the city does not want any organic waste to go into red bins or landfill as we have done in the past. The new system is a change we all must get used to. Also, the practical implications of managing heaps of exceptions are costly and would not make sense without likely further rate increases. While some may be unhappy, the new service will benefit most residents.
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