MORE than 12,000 Ipswich residents have used free kerbside collection bags to bin unwanted items such as furniture, white goods and toys since the program was introduced this time, last year.
The on-demand Flexiskip bags have so far accounted for about 1,000 tonnes of material destined for landfill.
Environment and Sustainability Chairman Jim Madden said the results in the first year of use showed promising results.
“This program allows residents to request collection when they want, rather than having to wait for a designated pick-up date,” Cr Madden said.
“We had set a minimum target of a 50 percent recycling rate, but we have achieved a remarkable 69 percent rate.
“That means after collecting 1,368.7 tonnes of material in a year, we have recycled more than 944.42 tonnes.
“It’s a far better outcome than under the previous program, when materials were collected biannually and went straight to landfill, creating a massive amount of waste.”
Under the program, Ipswich residents can have one free collection each year at whichever time they so choose.
Residents can go online or call to request a two cubic metre bag.
The Flexiskip heavy duty bags are also big enough to fit couches, mattresses, washing machines, bikes and other large items.
