Myth #5 Dumping doesn't hurt anybody

Myth

Dumped rubbish doesn’t really affect anybody else.

Reality

WRONG Rubbish dumping has many social, environmental and economic consequences.

More vandalism and lower house prices

Areas where rubbish is dumped:

• attract more rubbish
• appear neglected or uncared for, which can lead to more vandalism and lower property prices in this area.

Health risks to residents, pets and wildlife

• Items like dumped asbestos and hazardous chemicals pose obvious health risks
• Televisions and computer monitors can cause broken glass that can harm both animals and people and also create a nuisance for cyclists.
• Dumped rubbish particles and toxins can enter the stormwater system where they harm wildlife in creeks, rivers or the bay.

Costs for ratepayers

Rubbish dumping and litter costs Council (ratepayers) around $500,000 every year. This cost is borne by ratepayers who are effectively subsidising the disposal fees for the illegal dumping of rubbish.

Solution

Think about disposal costs before buying a new bed, TV or computer. Some bedding and electrical stores will remove you old mattress or white goods when delivering the new goods

If the old item is in good working order, donate it to a charity for resale.

If it's broken take it to a transfer station or put it out during the annual hard waste collection.