City of Perth Introduces FOGO System with Engaging Creature Campaign
The City of Perth has officially launched its new Food Organics and Garden Organics system, accompanied by a quirky and humorous campaign designed to educate adults on correct bin usage. This initiative aims to simplify the transition to a three-bin setup while promoting sustainable waste habits across the community.
Meet the 'Creature of Habit' Mascot
At the heart of the campaign is a charming character known as the 'Creature of Habit', a slightly odd yet endearing animal reminiscent of Mogwai from the movie Gremlins. This mascot symbolizes the challenges of changing daily routines and guides residents through the dos and don'ts of the lime-lidded FOGO bin.
The creature explains, "I'm a creature of habit and like to do things in a particular way. I'm used to putting food scraps in the red bin, but now they go in the FOGO bin so they can be composted. It's hard for me to change, but I'm willing to give FOGO a go because it's for the greater good. And now I can start a new habit putting food scraps in the FOGO, that's a comforting thought."
Campaign Focus on Humour and Relatability
The campaign leverages humour and straightforward messaging, such as the slogan "If it grows, it goes", to make the new system accessible and memorable. By emphasizing that food scraps should now be placed alongside garden waste, the City of Perth hopes to foster a shift in waste disposal behaviours among residents.
Lord Mayor Bruce Reynolds highlighted the importance of this behaviour change, stating, "Introducing FOGO is a habit change that can make a big difference. Food scraps and garden waste make up a large portion of what typically ends up in landfill. Through the FOGO system, these materials can instead be turned into compost that benefits parks, gardens, and green spaces across our beautiful city."
Key Changes to Waste Collection Services
To support the rollout, residents will receive a free kitchen caddy and two rolls of compostable liners. Significant adjustments to bin collections include:
- General waste red-lidded bins will be reduced from 240 litres to 140 litres and will no longer be collected weekly.
- The FOGO bin will be collected weekly, while general waste and recycling bins will be picked up on alternating fortnights.
Educational Outreach Efforts
In addition to the campaign, the city's waste education team will conduct door-knocking and pop-up information sessions throughout Perth. These efforts aim to provide hands-on guidance and answer any questions residents may have about the new system.
For further details on session times and locations, individuals are encouraged to visit the official City of Perth website.
