Currently every jurisdiction in Australia is at a very different part of their FOGO journey - WA has recently looked to mandate a 3-bin system, Victoria is flagging that it is coming as well, and possibly SA.  NSW supports a 3-bin FOGO system but does not require it and Queensland is embarking on the path.

However, the journey is not easy, particularly the transition from GO to FOGO - it is costly and challenging, due to the need for a quality product that is based on human knowledge (separation at kerb), and the need for markets.  

There are real challenges for metropolitan councils in implementing and delivering this service- for example limited existence of facilities (land cost and challenges with odour) as well as access to markets.

AORA states “the performance of the industry, in line with recycling rates, varies greatly across different states and territories. However, there remain significant obstacles to the growth of the industry in every jurisdiction.

The largest of these obstacles includes regulatory policy uncertainty; contamination of input material; Government policy (such as waste and recycling strategies); business licensing and operating permits; development applications (time, cost and politicisation); Government procurement failing to support organic recycling products; and short council contract periods.

Internal issues such as access to technology, labour costs, logistics and access to finance are relatively minor obstacles to growth.”

As an industry we need to talk openly and honestly about these challenges, to stop pretending FOGO as it stands is a great success story. We need to work together to make sure it becomes one, given what we know about its ability to divert material from landfill and contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions - however it is not as straight forward as some would make it seem.

The webinar will be jointly facilitated by WMRR CEO, Gayle Sloan.