A $16 million investment will fund reforms to improve how NSW handles asbestos waste, with $9 million allocated to establish the household collection trial beginning next year.
The program will offer free pick-up and disposal of asbestos waste for NSW households, with the aim of reducing illegal dumping and improving safety for families and workers.
The initiative forms part of the government's response to the Chief Scientist's report into asbestos in the waste stream.
Illegal dumping remains a significant problem across the state, costing councils millions of dollars annually in clean-up costs.
The dumping is believed to be a result of many homeowners undertaking renovations either being unaware of safe disposal options or being deterred by the cost.
The Asbestos Plan of Action outlines a range of measures to address asbestos across the waste supply chain, including stronger controls and training on work sites, and a more robust supply chain to prevent contamination.
NSW Minister for the Environment Penny Sharpe said several of the changes bring NSW into line with other states and territories.
“One in three houses built before 1990 contains asbestos - that’s why it’s important to make it cheaper and easier for NSW families to dispose of these materials,” Ms Sharpe said.
“To avoid the looming waste crisis in NSW, we need to increase resource recovery and reduce barriers to safely disposing of problematic waste types, like asbestos.
“We’re acting upon recommendations to tighten the entire supply chain – making sure it is safer for workers, better for industry and trusted by the community.”
The Plan was developed in consultation with SafeWork NSW, the Asbestos and Dust Diseases Institute, industry representatives, workers and the NSW Asbestos Coordination Committee.
For information on asbestos waste and proper handling, to go www.asbestos.nsw.gov.au.
For local disposal information, go to www.edwardriver.nsw.gov.au/Services/Rubbish-Bins-and-Recycling/Asbestos.
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