Programs and initiatives
Port Stephens Council is committed to waste avoidance, reduction, and recycling as part of its focus on a circular economy.
Many of our projects are partly funded by the NSW Environment Protection Authority through the waste levy.
Key projects and iniciatives
Recycled content road asphalt
In 2022, Council trialled circular economy asphalt in the construction of 267m of Salamander Way, incorporating:
- 57,917 waste glass bottle equivalents
- 83 tonnes of recycled asphalt
- Crumb rubber from 758 end-of-life tyres
- A reduction of 8,865 kg CO2e compared to virgin materials
This initiative has saved significant natural resources, including 8.8 tonnes of bitumen, 78.8 tonnes of crushed aggregates, and 10.4 tonnes of natural sand. Learn more here
Permanent water refill stations
To encourage reusable water bottles and reduce single-use plastics, Council has installed water refill stations at:
- Little Beach Foreshore Reserve,
- Henderson Park Lemon Tree Passage,
- Tomaree Headlands
Greener concrete and recycled plastic furniture
Council is incorporating recycled glass into concrete products and using recycled plastic for outdoor furniture. Some locations include:
- George Reserve, Salamander Bay – Recycled plastic picnic tables & concrete slab
- Aliceton Reserve Karuah, Tanilba Bay Foreshore Reserve, Mallabulla Sports Complex
- Raymond Terrace CBD, Robinson Reserve (Anna Bay), Apex Park (Nelson Bay), and more
Timber diversion
Between November 2022 – November 2023, Council diverted 830.48 tonnes of timber from landfill, which is now processed into particle board materials.
Expanded Polystyrene recycling
Since 2022, Council has recycled 6,400 kg of expanded polystyrene, reducing landfill waste.
Mattress recycling
In 2022/23, Council recycled 4,349 mattresses (130.50 tonnes), preventing them from going to landfill.
Tyre recycling
Through the Salamander Bay Waste Transfer Station and problem waste drop-off days, Council has recycled:
- 2022/2023: 93.25 tonnes ( around 11,656 tyres)
- 2023/2024: Ongoing collection
Community Recycling Centre (CRC)
Council diverts problem waste from landfill, accepting items such as:
- Paint, batteries, gas bottles, fluoro tubes, fire extinguishers, fire alarms, and motor oil.
Education Programs
Primary School Program
Designed for Years 3 & 4, this interactive program explains waste services and how to recycle correctly. Students can engage in discussions and ask questions about waste and recycling.
Preschool Program
Aimed at ages 3–5, this session includes an interactive game and a visit from a waste truck. Sessions are scheduled in June & July.
High School Program
Council offers presentations, waste audits, and recycling assistance to high schools looking to improve waste management practices.
Community Presentations & Workshops
Council is always looking at promoting waste avoidance, reuse and recycling through workshops and presentations to the community through the libraries and online.
Past workshops include:
- Composting & worm farming
- Visible mending
- Reusable nappies
- Rethinking your wardrobe
Check the Council Events Page for upcoming sessions.
Good for the Hood @HOME Program
An online video library covering sustainable living topics and connecting residents with local sustainability initiatives until June 2025.
Clean Up Australia Day
Council assists with waste disposal for community clean-ups. Register here or contact Council for support outside of March.
Green Caffeen
In 2021, Council partnered with Green Caffeen to reduce disposable coffee cup waste. Over 20 cafes have joined—check the Green Caffeen website for locations.
For more information, contact waste@portstephens.nsw.gov.au or call (02) 4988 0255.