Wyndham City has joined a campaign requesting the state government revise its mandate that a fourth kerbside glass recycling bin be introduced in mid-2027.

The state government’s mandate aims to increase glass recycling rates and reduce contamination in the yellow recycling bin. 

Wyndham City is among 34 local government councils that support the broader objectives of improving recycling outcomes and reducing contamination, although there are concerns regarding the cost and benefits of a glass bin service, in addition to the timing of implementation.

The campaign calls on the government to consider more efficient, locally tailored solutions including the expansion of the Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) to include wine and spirit bottles, in line with other states in Australia. 

Wyndham City’s kerbside bin audits undertaken since the introduction of the CDS in 2023 have shown a significant reduction in the amount of glass in household yellow bins. If a glass bin was to be implemented, it would take 34 weeks to half fill a 120 litre bin.

Audits also show a significant proportion of the remaining glass could be diverted to the CDS, further reducing the need for a glass recycling bin. 

At present the glass that is collected through the yellow bin is recycled effectively and used to make new glass bottles and jars. This is the same process that would be undertaken if glass was collected separately, meaning the environmental outcome would be the same.

For more information and to take the survey before 25 May: https://theloop.wyndham.vic.gov.au/glass-recycling-campaign