Household Utilities: Recycling: Household Recycling.

In Queensland the "total solid waste production in 1991 was estimated at 2,575,461 tonnes. The population in this area was approximately 1,800,000" (QGEPA, 1999).

The following is a breakdown of domestic rubbish in Queensland 1991

Domestic Rubbish	Volume in tonnes
Glass	25,308
Plastic	18,743
Paper	98,662
Ferrous metals	59,844
Organic matter	552,326
Other	223,867

 

 

 

 

On-Site Recycling

The Newton House will adopt the following recycling strategies for waste products: -

1. Vegetation will be used in compost or vermiculture containers.

2. Greywater will be used in the laundry and garden beds.

3. Composted sewage from the dry composting toilet will be used in the permaculture garden as fertiliser.

4. Paper will be used for multiple purposes including lining garden beds and compost.

5. Building waste products may be modified or revamped and used on new projects.

6. Produce containers such as jars and plastic containers will become a storage system for the pantry or shed.

7. Items no longer required on site can be sold to another consumer or a demolition yard, given to charity groups or disposed of through a recycling system.

Household Recycling Off-Site

The local Gold Coast City Council transfer station will recycle boxes and paper, batteries, vegetation matter, glass, metals, clothing and oils and fats.

Household Landfill

"Queenslanders produce over 800 kg of waste each annually… most ends up as landfill" (Maroochy Shire Council).

The Newton House will reduce landfill by:-

1. reduce waste purchased - e.g. avoiding excess packaging and buy recycled packaging,

2. composting organic and green waste,

3. recycling waste - sorting and being actively involved in the council waste management programs.

LINKS

http://www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au/t_std2.asp?PID=30
http://www.envirocom.com.au/gcwaste/ http://www.env.qld.gov.au/environment/environment/green/