A man resident is calling on council to crack down on polystyrene dumping by builders in newer housing estates in Wyndham.
Peter Sasso, who frequently travels through the area, said the issue is worst in areas like Tarneit, Wyndham Vale and Manor Lakes.
“It is absolutely hideous, I have never seen such an accumulation of filth,” Mr Sasso said.
“The problem is extreme apathy about our environment and health about it from an official level.”
Mr Sasso said he has been urging council to do more about the issue since 2022.
“Unless someone is willing to take action, it is going to keep blowing everywhere – the substance never breaks down,” he said.
Mayor Mia Shaw said council is addressing growing concerns about illegal dumping of polystyrene, especially polystyrene waffle pods and foam remnants, from construction sites in new housing areas.
“Illegal litter dumping is a significant and growing problem for all councils, particularly in growth areas and has cost Wyndham ratepayers $6.1 million over the last five years,” Cr Shaw said.
She said council takes a zero-tolerance approach to illegal dumping and conducts targeted patrols that includes after-hours monitoring to deter polystyrene dumping.
In the past financial year, council issued 112 warnings or infringements to builders for failing to secure polystyrene on-site and 32 warnings or infringements were issued for not removing polystyrene in 48 hours.
“While enforcement alone may not eliminate illegal dumping of polystyrene, we’re prioritising clean-ups as soon as possible including deploying rapid response teams to quickly remove dumped polystyrene and maintain public areas,” Cr Shaw said.
“At Wyndham, residents are provided with a tip token each year, as well as three free hard rubbish collections.
“We encourage everyone to help keep Wyndham clean by reporting incidents of dumping and report any sighting of dumped polystyrene.
“We also encourage residents to take note of anyone dumping rubbish and record details including description of items dumped to assist council in undertaking enforcement action.”
Details: 1300 023 411
