Plan to ditch DCC rubbish bags

The time has come for residents to have their say on kerbside collection.

The Dunedin City Council began its draft 2020-21 annual plan consultations on Thursday, and presented two options when it came to waste.

Under the first, a new wheelie bin for household rubbish would replace council rubbish bags.

In the second, as well as the new rubbish wheelie bin, there would be a separate wheelie bin for food and garden waste.

The existing blue bins for glass and yellow wheelie bins for other forms of mixed recycling would remain under both options.

Photo: ODT files

The city’s existing rubbish and recycling collection system was introduced in 2011.

The changes come as the council strives to cut carbon emissions and reduce the amount of waste that goes to landfills.

Mayor Aaron Hawkins said the annual plan was the best opportunity residents had to talk about their vision of the city’s future.

"We’re asking for specific feedback around the rating method, and our kerbside collection service, but people shouldn’t feel limited to these issues.

"The city faces significant challenges in the short and long term.

"The more our community gets involved in decision-making processes like this, the stronger our collective responses will be."

Residents are also being asked to look at a draft waste minimisation and management plan and a proposed amendment to the 10 year plan.

The council has proposed an overall rates increase of 6.5%.

The annual plan is out for consultation until April 15.

emma.perry@odt.co.nz