City of Boroondara was awarded Silver WasteWise Certification by Sustainability Victoria at the Metropolitan Waste Management Group Local Governments Forum held on Thursday 12 August.

The award was presented to Lynden Ward Councillor Heinz Kreutz and Acting Manager of Infrastructure Services at City of Boroondara, Sam Di Giovanni,

The award recognises the ongoing efforts of City of Boroondara staff to integrate sustainability into its everyday operations, and demonstrates its commitment to responsible waste management practices which are also in line with one of the Council's key direction; enhancing the environment.

WasteWise is a practical, step-by-step program inspiring all Victorians to minimise waste and maximise the efficient use of valuable resources.

More than just a 'feel good' program, WasteWise has been extensively tested, trialled and documented for almost ten years.

Since joining the program in 2006, City of Boroondara has:

• installed public place recycling bins in all major shopping centres and public places
• developed a Green Events Guide for internal use which promotes waste minimisation and recycling with the free provision of recycling stations at events
• cut paper usage by 25 per cent
• exceeded the target of 25 per cent reduction in waste to sent to landfill
• tripled procurement of recycled and green products
• established a Green Office team to help minimise waste and maximise the efficient use of valuable resources
• established the Gecko Awards for staff contributing to a green office beyond their core job, and eco-buy training.

For more information about City of Boroondara's green initiatives for a sustainable environment, visit www.boroondara.vic.gov.au .