A circular economy aims to transform how we make and use products. It challenges us to think about how we can use things again and again.

We are developing a new Circular Economy Strategy that will guide how we manage waste and resources in Merri-bek over the next 5 years.

• What programs, services or initiatives in our community could we support to increase repair or reuse?
• What programs, services or initiatives could Council implement to increase uptake of circular activities within Merri-bek?

• Programs, services or community initiatives that Council could support to increase the repair or reuse of items in Merri-bek
• Programs, services or initiatives that Council could implement to increase uptake of circular business activities within Merri-bek
• Council procurement of circular goods and services that align with the strategy objectives
• Interventions that Council could implement to improve resource recovery and reduce contamination in the kerbside bins
• Strategy vision, objectives and principles

• Adopted reforms to kerbside waste services (e.g. glass recycling bins, booked hard waste service)
• Waste charge
• Changes resulting from adopted Kerbside Waste Service and Charge policy
• Waste service delivery obligations as outlined in state government regulations and legislation
• Services and programs must be viable and support the local transition to a circular economy

What happens next

Following this stage of community consultation, the summary findings will be shared with Councillors in April 2024. Further analysis of the engagement findings with cross-Council stakeholders will inform a draft strategy and action plan.

The draft strategy and action plan will then go to a Council Meeting in March 2025 for endorsement for public exhibition. The second stage of community consultation will run for 3 weeks in April 2025.

The final strategy and action plan are due to be presented to Council by mid-2025.