The role of the public in solid waste management

Abstract

Industrialised societies can be characterised by their wasteful use of resources. Associated problems include: the unsustainable use of material from the productive system; demands on land for disposal sites; stresses on the biophysical environment; and potential health hazards. New Zealand conforms to the trends set by the industrialised world, with domestic refuse quantities per person amongst the highest in the world. Although the public produce over 60% (by weight) of the waste stream, their role in waste management is largely underdeveloped. Management plans have been technocratic in approach focused on efficient collection and disposal, with little room for public input. The adoption of the Integrated Waste Management hierarchy as Government policy in 1990 signalled a new era of waste management. The importance of public support for waste policies, in terms of involvement in decision-making, and in changing attitudes and behaviour towards waste, is becoming recognised as an important part of waste management. The challenge waste managers now face is how to facilitate public education and involvement in moving towards the adoption of a new waste ethic.