The audit will estimate the percentage of food organics and garden organics in both the garbage and FOGO bins, to help council target education opportunities for increased diversion of food waste from landfill.

Mayor Mick Wolfe said bins from 250 properties in Mortlake and Port Fairy would be assessed to identify the type and quantity of materials going into landfill and those being diverted from landfill into FOGO bins.

A 2016 survey of existing users found 44 per cent of respondents ‘never used’ the bin. While some put their food waste in their home compost or fed it to their animals, others were unaware of what they could put in the FOGO bin.

Diverting organic waste from landfill reduces greenhouse gases, air pollution, and landfill costs.  

Moyne Shire mayor Mick Wolfe said the results of this audit will allow council to plan and implement targeted strategies and educational programs for the community. “We want to encourage more residents to put food waste into their FOGO bin,” he said. 

Council will assess both garbage and food organics garden organics (FOGO) bins before the bins are emptied into the collection truck. The assessment will determine the percentage of food organics and garden organics in each bin. Bins will then be emptied as normal.

“Managing waste starts in the home. We want households to divert as much waste as possible from garbage into FOGO and recycling. This project will help us target the right changes in behaviour to benefit the whole community,” said Cr Wolfe.

Stickers will be placed on bins to remind residents of good practices and prizes will be awarded for both participation and good practice.