Keep your FOGO plastic-free

When filling your FOGO (Food Organics, Garden Organics) bin, it’s important to know what you can put in it. Plastic contamination in FOGO bins has become an issue recently.

While plastic can sometimes be spotted before it’s emptied into the collection truck, it may also be hidden underneath other organic matter.

This results in the whole load of FOGO being contaminated and needing to be diverted to landfill, cancelling out everyone’s good work.

Remember, if it doesn’t rot or decompose, you can’t put it in a

FOGO bin. Anything that can go in your recycling bin shouldn’t be in the FOGO bin.

This means NO to:

• Plastics (not even biodegradable plastic bags)

• Nappies

• Fabric (e.g. clothing)

• Dryer lint (it contains manmade fibres such as nylon, polyester etc)

• Vacuum cleaner bag contents (will contain inorganic residue)

• Hard waste or broken household items, like furniture or plates and cups

• Plastic takeaway containers rations with community organisations, including The Golden Wattle Café in Glenorchy. The café is the first of its kind in Southern Tasmania dedicated to those living with dementia, their caregivers and those over 45 living by themselves. Cafe patrons enjoy a cafe experience, with music, craft and art activities on offer, and were helpful with sharing their experiences for the consultation.

COTA Tasmania CEO Craig Chadwick said concerns about housing, cost of living and access to appropriate healthcare were among the top priorities in all areas visited. “Similarly, access to and confidence with digital technology was frequently cited as impacting people’s overall sense of connection and involvement in their communities,” said Mr Chadwick.

The consultation report can be downloaded at www.cotatas.org.au/information/consultation or you can contact COTA Tasmania 6231 3265 for a copy.

• Hazardous or contaminated waste, like asbestos

• Thick branches

Please visit www.brighton.tas. gov.au/property/fogo/ for more information.