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August 21.2025

2 Minutes Read

EPA Launches Campaign to Reduce Problem Waste: A Call to Action for Community Health

EPA Campaign to Reduce Problem Waste recycling center with bins and signs.

Empowering Communities: The New EPA Initiative

The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has launched an inspiring year-long campaign aimed at transforming how we manage household problem waste. Kicking off on August 13, 2025, and running until June 30, 2026, this initiative is designed not only to educate residents regarding hazardous waste but also to cultivate a culture of responsible disposal.

Why Proper Waste Management Matters

Everyday items in our homes, such as batteries, gas bottles, and leftover paint, have the potential to inflict significant damage to our environment and the safety of waste workers if they aren’t disposed of responsibly. Kathy Giunta, Director of Circular Systems at the EPA, emphasizes that this campaign is about reshaping everyday habits: "Everyday household items can cause real harm when disposed of incorrectly. This campaign is about making it easier for the community to do the right thing," she stated. The availability of over 100 Community Recycling Centres (CRCs) and more than 60 Household Chemical CleanOut (HCC) events across NSW is a fantastic step towards safer waste disposal.

Engaging the Public for Positive Change

The EPA's campaign encourages residents to actively participate in these initiatives, inviting them to:

Safely dispose of hazardous items to protect the environment and reduce risks to workers.
Utilize free disposal services available at CRCs and HCC events across NSW.
Identify problem waste, including paints, oils, and pool chemicals, that require special care.
Reject the notion of placing hazardous waste in kerbside bins.

The Benefits to Our Community

The NSW Government’s investment of $66 million into problem waste programs from 2022 to 2027 reflects a robust commitment to combating illegal dumping and curtailing hazardous materials in landfills. With CRCs having safely collected over 27,000 tonnes of problem waste since 2014, it's clear that community initiatives have substantial potential for impact. In the coming year, the addition of two new CRCs and numerous HCC events will further amplify these positive efforts.

Conclusion: Join the Movement!

As the EPA launches this campaign, residents are encouraged to embrace this opportunity to protect our local environments. By participating in these crucial disposal events and altering everyday habits, you can contribute to a safer and more sustainable community. Together, let’s create a cleaner future! Stay informed, be proactive, and make a difference with every decision regarding waste disposal.

Environment and Future

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EPA Launches Campaign to Reduce Problem Waste: A Call to Action for Community Health

Empowering Communities: The New EPA Initiative

Why Proper Waste Management Matters

Engaging the Public for Positive Change

The Benefits to Our Community

Conclusion: Join the Movement!

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