26 September 2023

Comment invited on wasted food strategy

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The Department of Environment and Science is seeking feedback on its draft Queensland Organics Strategy 2022-2032.

The Department said the Strategy set out the actions needed to drive how waste was avoided and better managed in the short, medium and long-term.

Minister for the Environment, Meaghan Scanlon said while there had been some great initiatives underway in the agriculture sector to avoid organic material going to landfill, other areas had a long way to go.

Ms Scanlon said the draft Strategy sought to avoid the generation of food and other organic wastes; reduce organic material going to landfill; and cut losses in food production.

“It also seeks to improve soil health, water quality, food security and build infrastructure, investment and employment,” she said.

Ms Scanlon said the Strategy was developed in consultation with Local Governments, industry peak bodies, non-Government organisations and the resource recovery sector, “and now we are seeking the community’s feedback”.

Consultation closes on 1 November.

Meanwhile, the State’s youngest citizens will help lead the charge against organic waste with funding to help State schools tackle food and garden rubbish generated in the schoolyard.

Ms Scanlon said State schools would be able to apply for grants of up to $2,500 to reduce their organic waste and instead turn it into valuable products through composting, worm farms and circular food waste systems.

State schools can apply for the grants at the start of Term 4 on 5 October and before 29 October.

The 31-page draft Queensland Organics Strategy 2022-2032 can be accessed at this PS News link.

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