Scenic Rim residents have improved their recycling habits, with a Council program recording a 12.88 per cent reduction in contamination in recycling bins.
The results came from the 2025 Let’s Get It Sorted Bin Health Check program, which was delivered across Beaudesert, Gleneagle, Boonah, Kalbar, Peak Crossing, Canungra and Boyland between April and September last year.
The program involved Council officers conducting “lift-the-lid” checks of household bins and speaking directly with residents about what belongs in each bin.
A total of 6,630 bin inspections and 158 kerbside conversations were completed, with the program also recording a 4.23 per cent reduction in bagged recycling and waste.
Scenic Rim Mayor Tom Sharp said the results demonstrated the value of direct community engagement and clear recycling information.
“More inspections, more conversations and clearer, consistent messaging helped create lasting awareness,” he said.
The $111,987 initiative was supported by an $81,743 Queensland Government grant through the Let’s Get It Sorted Partnership Program.
While contamination has fallen, Council said soft plastics, bagged rubbish and food packaging remain common challenges for households.
Mayor Sharp encouraged residents to continue checking what they place in their bins, saying every household can contribute to reducing waste and improving resource recovery.
The program builds on previous waste education efforts undertaken across the region and is expected to inform future recycling initiatives.
Image source: scenicrim.qld.gov.au