Local governments have a new tool in the fight against illegal dumping with the release of the Crackdown on Illegal Dumping publication.
The Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, Verity Firth said the guide will help councils develop and implement an action plan to tackle illegal dumping.
"Illegal dumping damages the environment and is unsightly and hazardous to our communities.
"It is also expensive to remove, costing NSW local governments $10 million every year.
"This new resource will help councils in their fight – setting out proven methods to minimise opportunities for illegal dumping and raise awareness through education campaigns," Ms Firth said.
Produced by the Department of Environment and Climate Change NSW (DECC) the handbook incorporates a crime prevention model and includes case studies of techniques that have already been successfully used by local government.
Sutherland Shire Council and the RTA reduced illegal dumping on Heathcote Road in southern Sydney, with their successful campaign using a 'inform and enforce' approach.
This approach included surveillance and physical barriers, coupled with an education campaign raising awareness and encouraging locals to report illegal dumping.
"As a result, the RTA reported a 96% decrease in material collected along Heathcote Road over the 12-month period following the campaign," said Ms Firth.
Download a free copy of Crackdown on Illegal Dumping – A Handbook for Local Government now.
Copies are also available by calling the DECC Environment Line on 131 555.