On-demand bulk waste verge collections are set to revolutionize waste management in Fremantle, thanks to the introduction of a new service approved by the Council. This innovative approach, scheduled to launch later this year, will provide residents with the convenience of pre-booking their bulk verge collections throughout the year. It will be a nice support for the main Freemantle skip bins.
Customised Solutions for Cleaner Streets
Mayor Hannah Fitzhardinge emphasized that the new model aims to offer a tailored solution for households while simultaneously contributing to cleaner streets. Rather than waiting for the next scheduled annual city-wide verge collection, residents will now have the freedom to book a collection when they need it.
Once a collection is booked, residents can simply place their bulk waste on the chosen date and expect it to be collected within three days. This decentralized approach ensures that bulk waste collections will be less conspicuous, reducing visual eyesores in the suburbs. Additionally, the waste will be present for a much shorter period, with an average of only three days, as opposed to the previous model's average of 14 days.
Inclusion of Previously Excluded Residents
The introduction of the on-demand model allows the City to expand bulk waste collections to encompass all Fremantle households. Previously, this service was unavailable for many apartments and inner-city residents.
Mayor Fitzhardinge noted that almost 3000 apartments and inner-city residents were excluded from the convenience of verge-side collections due to limitations in the old system. However, the new model ensures that these residents can now participate with minimal impact on CBD streets and footpaths.
Addressing Community Concerns
This shift to an on-demand model stems from the concerns raised by the community during the 2021 Verge Collection Review. In response to the review's 237 submissions, with 55% of respondents suggesting alternative bulk waste collection models, the City decided to implement the changes.
The main issues highlighted by the community included the unsightly appearance of streets, materials being placed out too early, messy aftermath left by verge trawlers, and potential traffic hazards.
Mayor Fitzhardinge stressed that the new model addresses these concerns while making the bulk waste collection service more efficient and flexible.
Furthermore, the previous city-wide collections often resulted in illegal dumping on medians, footpaths, and vacant blocks. The on-demand model aims to keep public spaces safe and tidy by mitigating these instances of illegal dumping.
Cost and Environmental Considerations
While the new model is estimated to cost an additional $50,000 annually, it enables the City to extend bulk verge collections to all residents without raising rates. The increased cost has been factored into the annual budget process.
To accompany the roll-out of the new model, an educational campaign will be launched to encourage recycling and reuse options. Residents will be encouraged to explore alternatives such as donating items to charity, listing them on Buy Nothing Project Facebook pages or Facebook Marketplace, or utilizing the free drop-off services at the Fremantle Recycling Centre. It is crucial for residents to realize that the items collected in bulk waste verge collections often end up in landfills. By embracing alternative options, the community can contribute to the City's Waste Management Action Plan, which prioritizes reducing landfill waste.
Positive Feedbacks and Future Plans
The City of Fremantle joins a growing number of local governments that have adopted the on-demand service, including Town of Mosman Park, Town of Cottesloe, Town of Cambridge, Shire of Peppermint Grove, City of Subiaco, and City of Vincent.
Mayor Fitzhardinge shared that feedback from residents in these areas about the on-demand service has been overwhelmingly positive. She believes that the new system will not only provide households with greater flexibility but also help the City better serve its community while making significant strides toward reducing landfill waste and improving recycling rates.
Finalizing the details of the new model, such as the number of collections offered per household per year and the notice required for booking a collection, is a priority for the City of Fremantle. The changes are expected to take effect in September 2023, and a comprehensive resident information campaign will be launched soon to ensure that residents are well-informed about the upcoming improvements to waste management in their area.