Managing disaster waste

Bay of Plenty has experienced its fair share of natural and man-made disasters over the past few years. From the grounding of the Rena to the flooding caused by ex-tropical Cyclone Debbie.

Such events can devastate communities and generate thousands or even millions of tonnes of waste.

Without adequate planning, disaster waste volumes can overwhelm systems and infrastructure, harm human health, the environment and economic assets, and impede response efforts and recovery.

*Following the Edgecumbe flooding in April 2017, its estimated 7,000 tonnes of waste was generated, with about half thought to be silt and the other half construction and household related items.*

Developing a Disaster Waste Management Plan

Bay of Plenty Regional Council, and project partners Environment Canterbury and Waikato Regional Council, have been working together on the development of a tool to plan for and manage disaster waste.

Following an initial scoping study and research report the current phase of works has produced a working template to support those involved in managing waste in a disaster response.

Please see the latest documents including:

This has been made possible with funding from the Ministry for Civil Defence and Emergency Management.