Waste management and reduction guide for retail industry

295.4 StormwatermanagementRunoff from large open spacesadjacent to centres can gatherenormous amounts of rubbish,pollutants and waste and depositthem in adjacent waterwaysincluding rivers and creeks, andeventually our coastal environment.Managing stormwater■ Ensure waste storage andcollection areas are roofed toprevent stormwater access, orat the least ensure waste skipshave lids to prevent entry ofrainwater or waste dispersedby wind■ Ensure all putrescible waste isenclosed in sealed containersbefore disposal into industrialwaste bins■ Keep service alleys andwaste collection areas clearof loose rubbish■ Consult the local water authorityon stormwater diversionsystems for loading bays■ Audit sites regularly toensure there are no incorrectconnections, for examplefloor drains to stormwater orstormwater to sewer■ Install, service and maintain litterinterception devices in centrestormwater entries■ If possible, direct stormwater tolandscaped areas or speciallydesigned dedicated grass swalesto filter water before it enters thestormwater system■ Ensure that staff andretailers sweep rather thanhose down areas■ Be aware of the dangers fromcigarette butts; install ‘butt bins’in outside areas and ensure thatcleaners regularly monitor them■ Place clearly labelled litterbins in prominent positions inparking areas■ Develop a relationship with localcatchment water managementauthorities to networkopportunities for mutual benefit■ Ensure gardening staff reduceherbicide use for weed control■ Arrange for steam cleaning ofsurfaces affected by unsightlydeposits, such as gum and oilSection 5.Improving generalenvironmentalperformanceCASE STUDYStockland Parabanks’ usesstormwater drain stencilling programvisual methods to raise communityawareness of the need to protectlocal waterways through effectivecontrol of litter and waste. Drainsare also regularly maintained toremove build up of any wastematerials together with a programfor sweeping of car park areas tominimise litter problems.CASE STUDYNumerous centres are providingdedicated cigarette butt bins forsmokers in designated areas awayfrom entrances to comply with newsmoking legislation. Smokers areencouraged to use bins in preferenceto discarding butts on footpaths or ingutters and eventually ending up inlocal waterways.