By Tate Papworth
Brimbank council is urging the state government to dip into its sustainability fund and support initiatives for a greener economy.
Cr Kim Truong tabled a motion at the council’s October meeting calling on the government to help support the implementation of a circular economy at a local level.
“Council needs to support its residents and local businesses to move towards a circular economy and could do this by preparing a local action plan that outlines local opportunities and initiatives,” Cr Truong said.
A circular economy is an economic system focused on reducing waste and increasing the recycling of limited resources.
Brimbank mayor, Cr Lucinda Congreve said a healthy economy needs to be greener and circular economy initiatives would be a step in the right direction.
“There is increasing understanding by our community that we live beyond our planet’s means and that our rates of consumption are unsustainable.
“A circular economy approach puts forward principles that attempt to ensure resources are used efficiently for as long as possible and minimise waste,” Cr Congreve said.
The sustainability fund accrues money through the Victorian Municipal and Industrial Landfill Levy.
As of June 30, 2018 the total money accrued was $511 million. Cr Truong requested a portion of that money to be assigned and suggested a number of initiatives to advance the concept including prioritising the management of organic waste, supporting the development of businesses that use circular economy principles and improving source separation of waste.
Other initiatives included recycling and advocating for increased product stewardship.
The council will write to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosia requesting funds to be allocated to local government.
