New public recycling scheme to launch in Waikato

Public recycling bins for bottles and cans are coming to shopping areas in Taupo and Raglan and could soon be introduced to other Waikato towns.

Environment Waikato is working with the Ministry for the Environment on a three-year national Recycling in Public Places Initiative.

Funded by the Government, the $4.6 million initiative will involve the collection of tin, glass, aluminium and plastic in prominent public areas throughout New Zealand.

Environment Waikato, Taupo District Council and Waikato District Council have tapped into the funding to get recycling bins in the main streets of Taupo and Raglan this June. The bins, marked with the Government’s “Love NZ – Recycle with care" brand, will be installed alongside regular rubbish bins.

In the first year of the trial, the Ministry for the Environment will contribute $200,000 and Environment Waikato up to $19,000. It is hoped the recycling schemes will become self-sustaining in the long term.

Environment Waikato sustainability coordinator Susa Kupa said it was possible more Waikato towns could be added next year, subject to the ministry's approval.

“We’re thrilled with the enthusiasm district councils have for this and we’d love to help get similar schemes going in other Waikato centres,” she said.

“Being able to recycle in public places will reinforce the importance of recycling at home and at work and it will help to boost New Zealand’s clean, green image.”

Environment Waikato and its partner councils are aiming to launch the scheme in our region on June 5, World Environment Day.

Other New Zealand centres taking part in the first year of the Recycling in Public Places initiative include Wellington, Christchurch, the Far North and Kaikoura.