13 May, 2020

Gunnedah Shire Council has joined the NSW Environment Protection Authority’s (EPA) anti-littering campaign to call on the community to report littering from vehicles.

The Report to the EPA Service is part of a comprehensive NSW State Government anti-littering program that aims to deter people from littering by increasing the likelihood of being seen, reported and fined.

Each year over 25,000 tonnes of litter is tossed in NSW. According to the EPA, research shows people are less likely to litter if they think someone is watching. This campaign aims to reduce the amount of litter by reminding litterers that the whole community is on the look out.

Council’s Regulatory Services Co-ordinator Wade Berryman said the campaign sends a clear message that littering is unacceptable and that litterers will be seen, reported and fined.

“Roadside litter is one of our region’s most unnecessary and preventable environmental problems. Reporting littering from vehicles helps to raise awareness, change behaviour, reduce clean-up costs and keep our community clean,” Mr Berryman said.

“Cleaning up litter costs Gunnedah Shire Council time and money that could be better spent on other services that benefit the community.

“The removal of litter poses health hazards to those tasked with removing it. In the current climate it is particularly important to prevent littering given the Coronavirus can survive on surfaces. As travel restrictions are set to ease in the coming months, clean public spaces will also give residents and visitors greater confidence when out and about.

“There are a number of rest areas around the Shire where litter can be disposed of while travelling. Or it can simply be left in the car to dispose of at home. There are no excuses for this behaviour.

“If anyone in the community witnesses someone doing the wrong thing, take note of their vehicle type and numberplate and report it to the EPA.

“By registering to report littering from vehicles, we can be part of the solution to the issue of litter and can help keep our Shire looking its best.”

The EPA can issue fines of $250 for an individual and $500 for a corporation for littering from a vehicle, based on reports from members of the public.

To make a report you need to:

• Have personally witnessed the litter being thrown from the vehicle,
• Provide vehicle registration details and the location where the littering took place, and
• Report the incident within 14 days.

Council encourages everyone to get on board by going to the NSW EPA website, www.epa.nsw.gov.au/reporttoepa, and register to report littering from vehicles.

ENDS

Media contact: Eliza Gallen (02) 6740 2100.