Gross pollutant traps around the Central Coast have stopped almost 200 tonnes of waste from entering the region’s waterways following recent heavy rains.
Central Coast Council said 191 tonnes of waste had been removed from the traps in March and April, stopping litter, dirt, sediment and other pollutants entering the waterways along with stormwater.
Once the region experiences a longer period of clear weather, conditions will be suitable for the collection and disposal of waste from other traps yet to be serviced, Council said.
There are 339 gross pollutant traps at key locations across the Coast – both below and above ground.
Council Administrator, Rik Hart, said recent weather had revealed what ends up in the gutter and eventually in our waterways.
“While Council actively stops some litter entering the waterways, we need the community’s help to stop litter flowing into our drainage systems in the first place,” Hart said.
“Roadside litter is one of the most unnecessary and preventable environmental problems and can create all sorts of impacts for the flora and fauna that call the Coast’s local waterways home.
“Littering is not only damaging to our environment, but it is also a fineable offence.
“Everyone can play a role in reducing the impact of litter on local beaches and waterways.”
The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) and local councils can issue fines from $250 for an individual and $500 for a corporation for littering from a vehicle, based on reports from members of the public.
To find out how you can “report a tosser” littering from a vehicle, visit www.epa.nsw.gov.au or call the Environment Line on 131 555.
Source:
Media release, May 5
Central Coast Council