Alternative approaches to rubbish disposal : a case study of the Kawau Island Historic Reserve

Abstract

Traditional methods of refuse disposal are being increasingly questioned in New Zealand because of their associated environmental, economic and social costs. This report examines the costs associated with a traditional method of refuse disposal (a landfill site), within the Kawau Island Historic Reserve. Refuse disposal is made more difficult for the Department of Conservation who administer the reserve, because of physical limits on space and the requirement for a landfill to be sited away from public view (due to the popularity of Kawau as a tourist resource).

Specifically the report identifies a number of alternative methods of waste management for implementation on Kawau. The options are measured in terms of their applicability in the current institutional context, and how well they achieve a desirable environmental standard. Recognition that a rubbish problem does exist on Kawau Island, means more effective management of the problem can be undertaken. Given that a fundamental aspect of the problem is caused by lack of funding, the analysis will also consider methods of cost recovery for DOC, including the adoption of a "user pays" approach. The analysis of alternative waste management strategies for Kawau Island raises a number of issues which have relevance to the wider problems of waste management. These are discussed in the conclusions of the report.