A modern style of recycling has been developed as part of a Memorandum of Understanding entered into last year by Tangentyere Council and Alice Springs Town Council.
Organic waste is being transformed into a range of quality mulches, composts and soil mixes that will be sold locally to landscapers and for domestic use. The project is having a positive impact on the environment, saving valuable resources as well as reducing landfill costs and space.
It will provide jobs and training for young Aboriginal people, and a new business venture for Alice Springs.
The feasibility of a green waste enterprise was investigated by a steering committee comprising representatives from the two Councils. They then produced a business plan for the project. Indigenous Landscapes NT, an incorporated company owned by Tangentyere Council Inc. is running the enterprise, supported by a Regional Assistance Grant from the Commonwealth Department of Transport and Regional Services A tub grinder and excavator, funded by Environmental Australia, mulches everything from lawn clippings to tree branches and wooden pallets.
“This is a major environmental initiative in Alice Springs,” said Operations Supervisor, Reggie Smith. “The whole town is getting behind what we’re doing, by thinking about what is ‘clean’ organic waste that can be recycled.”
The venture currently employs four people with more positions planned as business grows.
