Transforming Dunedin's Waste Management for a zero-waste future.

The Waste Futures project was initiated in 2018 to address the need for more sustainable waste management practices in Dunedin. The project includes:

  • Introduction of an improved kerbside collection services for rubbish, recycling, and green waste by July 2024
  • Development of an enhanced Resource Recovery Park at the Green Island Landfill site to support the new kerbside collection
  • Progressing the closure of the existing landfill at Green Island over the next six-seven years
  • Planning a new Class 1 landfill at Smooth Hill, south of the city

Dunedin City Council seeks to achieve a significant reduction in waste sent to landfill, promote zero-waste and circular economy principles, and reduce carbon emissions. The Waste Futures project is complex, long-term, and high-profile with tremendous local interest.

Client

Dunedin City Council

Location

Otago

Project team

Rachael Eaton
Maurice Dale
Katrina Roos
Rhys Girvan
Sue McManaway
Tanya Blakely
Jaz Morris
Emma Taylor
Brent Rohloff

Worked with

GHD

Project date

2019 - ongoing

Changing public behaviour and raising awareness about the importance of waste reduction and recycling is one of the primary issues to address. The project also faces design and consenting challenges to ensure the implementation of state-of-the-art waste processing technologies and waste collection systems. However, these challenges present opportunities to foster innovation and collaboration between experts and engage the community in a behaviour-changing conversation.

The consent processes involve working closely with Council, technical experts, stakeholders, and mana whenua to address and mitigate any environmental concerns and ensure responsible waste management practices for the future.

As part of the Waste Futures project, obtaining resource consent for a new Class 1 landfill at Smooth Hill, the closure of the existing Green Island landfill, and a new Resource Recovery Park is crucial.

The outstanding appeal relating to the Smooth Hill landfill was resolved and the Environment Court granted consent for the project in May 2023. A key next step is the formation of a community liaison group, which will be an important conduit between Council and the community.

Design, consenting, and engagement work continues for the Green Island landfill closure and the development of the new Resource Recovery Park.

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