Media Statement - For immediate release
Roger Ellis

Thursday 6th September 2007

Public Space Recycling – “Initiative that’s Time Has Come”

Wellington could enhance its environmental reputation if it moved quickly to establish a network of public space recycling facilities.

“We need to move ahead with bolder recycling initiatives. Public Space Recycling is an important part of a comprehensive strategy for helping make Wellington an environmentally-friendly city” said Mr Ellis.

Public space recycling is a network of recycling bins in public spaces so that people can recycle when they are away from home, visiting the city, or on the way to or from a sports or cultural event. This will also assist in providing tourists the option to recycle as they travel around the country.

“Put simply, Public Space Recycling is an initiative that’s time has come. Our population is more mobile than it used to be and local authorities need to be more creative in the solutions they adopt to confront new challenges – such as Climate Change” said Mr Ellis.

“New Zealanders throw away 3.6 million tonnes of rubbish every year. The crazy thing is that around 65 percent of our "rubbish" could be recycled or composted instead. Let’s make it easier for people to choose to recycle wherever they are” said Mr Ellis.

The costs to ratepayers can be minimised by using corporate sponsorships from companies who are increasingly aware of the need to be environmentally friendly. “The Council should get on board and work with government to introduce the scheme in Wellington” said Mr Ellis.

“It’s a great example of a simple but effective idea that is also good for the planet” said Mr Ellis.

ENDS

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