E-waste facilities expanding

Published on 13 February 2019

Gannawarra Shire Council is already preparing for the pending ban on electronic materials being placed in landfills, increasing its e-waste recycling storage facilities.

New sheds are being constructed at Council’s Transfer Stations at Cohuna and Kerang in readiness for the July 1 ban, thanks to a $15 million State Government program to upgrade more than 130 e-waste collection sites across Victoria.

Both Transfer Stations now accept electronic items that requires batteries to operate, or has a cord and plug. A $25 charge applies for each computer monitor, laptop or television handed in as these items contain toxic chemicals – such as barium, phosphor, lead and hexavalent chromium – which require special handling.

“The amount of e-waste created is growing up to three times faster than general municipal waste in Australia,” Council’s Director of Infrastructure and Development, Geoff Rollinson said.

“These items contain both hazardous and valuable materials that can be recovered when they reach the end of their working life.”

The e-waste shed at the Kerang Transfer Station has reached the electrical connection stage, with the construction of walls for the Cohuna Transfer Station’s e-waste shed the next stage of the project. It is anticipated the construction of both buildings will be completed by the end of the month.

“To help further reduce landfill, the Lalbert Transfer Station has received a new recycling trailer, while the Quambatook Transfer Station has seen improvements to accommodate waste and recycling,” Mr Rollinson said.

Further details regarding Council’s e-waste services are available online at www.gsc.vic.gov.au