Councils outline Christmas waste services and holiday tips

THE festive season brings an increase in household waste, and councils across northern NSW are stepping up to manage the load.

While some services will operate as usual, others are making adjustments to ensure collections run smoothly in Ballina, Byron, Tweed, and Lismore Shires.

Ballina Shire

Ballina Shire Council confirmed no changes to regular bin collection days, even on public holidays, though residents may notice collections occurring later in the day due to demand.

The Ballina Resource Recovery Centre and Salvage Shed will close on December 25, December 26, and January 1.

Byron Shire

Byron Shire Council is running extra bin collections from December 23 to January 3.

Urban residents should put all three bins (red, yellow, and green) out on their usual collection days, while rural residents should place out red and yellow bins.

Tweed Shire

Tweed residents have been told to expect bin collections to continue as usual, even on public holidays.

The Stotts Creek Resource Recovery Centre will close only on Christmas Day, while the JUNKtion Tip Shop will close from December 20 and reopen January 8.

Lismore City

Lismore City Council has confirmed waste collection will operate as normal, but its Recycling & Recovery Centre and Nimbin Transfer Station will close on December 25, December 26, and January 1.Tips for Managing Waste Over Christmas

To help reduce waste during the holiday season, Byron Shire Council recommends:

Reducing food waste: Encourage guests to bring containers for leftovers, use up extras with tips from Love Food Hate Waste, and freeze what cannot be eaten immediately. Food scraps, including seafood and bones, can go in the organics bin.

Recycling correctly: Use recycling bins for hard plastics, glass bottles, clean paper and cardboard, and aluminium cans. Provide a box or crate for guests to dispose of their drink containers.

Donating responsibly: Only donate to charities during their operating hours and check what items they accept to avoid overwhelming them with unsuitable goods.

For more information, contact your local council or visit their websites.