Two Macedon Ranges council programs driving sustainable agriculture practices and waste reduction measures have been announced as finalists in this year’s LGPro awards.
The healthy landscapes program and a suite of practical resource recovery initiatives have both been nominated in the sustainability initiative category as part of the annual awards, which recognise outstanding work in local governments.
Council said its increased efforts to ‘close the loop’ in recent years has led to a range of initiatives being implemented, which are all aimed at helping residents recycle more and waste less.
These include a four-bin system, a soft plastic recycling trial in Romsey, and recently introducing polystyrene and textile recycling at resource recovery facilities.
Council’s chief executive Bernie O’Sullivan said it was pleasing to see council recognised for its proactive approach to waste management.
“Our council is committed to implementing innovative recycling options and diverting as much waste from landfill as possible, reflecting a strong desire and commitment from our community,” he said.
“The combined effort of these initiatives over the last few years has seen an increase in the recyclability of many items as well as reduced contamination rates.
“This has enabled us to achieve some of the highest diversion rates from landfill when compared with other councils.”
In 2023 council achieved a landfill diversion rate of 72 per cent, which is higher than the average Victorian municipal diversion rate of 48 per cent.
Its initiatives to ‘close the loop’ has so far resulted in 5700 tonnes of glass, 28,900 tonnes of green waste (FOGO) and 8400 tonnes of recycling being diverted from landfill, according to council.
Separately, council said the healthy landscapes program provides education to enhance property productivity, biodiversity, waterway health, and resilience to climate change.
The program is tailored to diverse land managers with grazing livestock and cropping interests, offering localised information.
Mr O’Sullivan said the program has successfully engaged private land managers and encouraged changes that enhance their resilience.
“We are very excited that these two initiatives have been recognised for the positive impact they have had on our community and the environment and we look forward to seeing the outcome of the awards,” he said.
The winner will be announced on May 2.
