Views on waste sought

More than 1400 ratepayers are keen on being involved in the future of their waste and have responded to the Manawatu District Council's draft waste management and minimisation plan.

The plan, which will put strategies in place for the next six years is up for discussion and the council is so far pleased with the level of responses.

However, wastes manager Peterson Asante said he hoped more people would reply to a discussion document that had been circulated in the district.

"Many people are keen to do their bit to save the environment and so this is an opportunity for them to have a say as to how we manage our waste responsibility," he said.

The plan outlines how council wants to manage waste in the district and is looking at options for recycling and general waste facilities.

There are five options, ranging from $80 to $250 a year.

Mr Asante said the council was looking to reduce at least 20 per cent of waste going to local landfills by 2016.

"[The council] wants the community to become more active in recycling and re-use of waste materials," he said.

The council currently spends more than $1 million a year on recycling and rubbish collection, and operating the transfer station.

The plan is open for consultation until August 30. The responses will then be analysed and discussed at next month's council meeting.

- © Fairfax NZ News