COUNCIL AT FOREFRONT OF TEXTILE RECYCLING
Dubbo Regional Council (DRC) has launched a textile recycling trial at the Whylandra Waste and Recycling Centre to divert the problem waste from going into landfill and ensure the Dubbo Region continues to remain proactive and innovative in its approach to environmental sustainability.
The trial, which began in November, has seen Council partner with textile recycling company DLG Australia to help decrease the 800,000 tonnes of textiles that end up in landfill in Australia each year.
DRC is one of only two local governments in Australia that offers this service in partnership with DLG Australia.
Manager Resource Recovery and Efficiency, Jamie Lobb, said the opportunity to provide a recycling option for textile products aligns with the recently adopted Net Zero Framework.
“By providing a textile recycling option, we are assisting in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, diverting re-useable material away from landfill and transitioning to circular economy practises where possible.”
“Textile waste is a global issue that Council is passionate about tackling at a local level,” Mr Lobb said.
Textile waste that contains a blend of polyester and cotton is of particular concern, with the decomposition process taking over 200 years and producing several noxious gases, including methane and other chemicals that can leach into soil and cause severe environmental damage.
“We want to make it as easy as possible for residents to keep their used textiles out of landfill and avoid the associated environmental damage,” Mr Lobb said.
“Council still encourages community members to donate their used clothing to their favourite charities, however we can accept those clothing items and textiles that cannot be donated.”
During the trial residents can drop off their textile waste free of charge to the Whylandra Waste and Recycling centre. The products will then be reprocessed and become a part of the circular economy by being made into useful products.
Items that can be donated include clothing items (ripped/damaged), shoes & boots, small bags & handbags, linens & blankets, and material off cuts.
For more information about Council’s waste facilities, including opening hours and other disposal services available, visit www.dubbo.nsw.gov.au/Households-Residents/Rubbish-Recycling-and-Sustainability/council-waste-facilities
Last Edited: 17 Nov 2023