Tech tackles illegal dumping in Geelong

THE City of Greater Geelong is using cutting-edge technology to crack down on illegal rubbish dumping outside North Geelong’s Salvation Army store in Sharon Court.

The city has partnered with software development and data solutions company InnerVision Engineering Services to install an innovative system that uses computer vision, Artificial Intelligence and machine learning to detect rubbish dumping incidents in CCTV footage.

The charity store is a known high-volume dumping site and since January, the new semi-autonomous system has helped the city issue 26 infringements, totalling $20,000, for unlawful dumping.

Traditional surveillance methods have proved inefficient at the site, with staff spending hours manually reviewing footage to identify offenders.

While staff intervention is still required to review and verify a rubbish dumping incident, the new technology has streamlined the process, enabling faster cleanup and identification of offenders, saving city staff more than 180 hours a year.

Geelong mayor Trent Sullivan said the city was using clever digital and data-driven solutions to address challenges to ensure the region was clean and safe for everyone.

“Illegal dumping of rubbish outside charity shops is an ongoing issue for the city and charities, costing thousands to clean up and dispose of, and draining resources that could be better spent on community programs and services,” he said.

“By utilising a more effective technology for this North Geelong charity shop, we are promoting a cleaner and healthier urban environment, ensuring our resources are used more effectively and allowing this store to focus on supporting those in need.”

Councillor and chair of the city’s environment and circular economy portfolio Peter Murrihy said dumped rubbish was a rising problem for many councils.

“People who dump rubbish in Greater Geelong are costing ratepayers more than $1 million per year,” he said.

“If you spot dumping in progress or dumped rubbish, you can report this to the city online [via its website] or by calling 5272 5272.

“Don’t forget, we offer two free hard waste collections to all homes each year and waste can also be dropped off at our resource recovery centres at Douro Street, North Geelong and Becks Road, Drysdale.”

Fines for littering start at $322 if issued on the spot and extend up to $9,000 when imposed by a court.

For more information, or to report dumped rubbish, head to geelongaustralia.com.au