In February this year, the Committee for Geelong put forward its opposition the proposed waste to energy facility in Lara.
Our position was based on concerns around the facility’s impact on Geelong and the surrounding region- from an environmental, feasibility, and design perspective.
Since taking this stand, it has been pleasing to see local politicians from all political leanings, business leaders, and other advocacy bodies follow our lead in voicing their concerns.
So why have so many leaders in Geelong formed this view, and why should you care?
While we need to be open to new solutions in sustainable waste management, this proposal raises significant concerns that must be considered.
The volume of waste required to operate this facility, coupled with the lack of demand within the Geelong region, could see Geelong become the destination for waste from across Victoria (and beyond).
The proposed site of the facility is close to residential housing and there is risk of negative impact on both established and growth suburbs in the north, at a time where there are pressures on housing supply.
The size, design and positioning of the site will create a dominant, yet visually disagreeable landmark in contrast to our UNESCO City of Design status.
There are potential health impacts for the community in terms of air quality and residual particles landing on produce grown in the region, not to mention the questionable overall environmental benefits of the proposal.
Geelong has worked hard to establish a reputation as a vibrant, healthy city. We are a lifestyle citywhich is drawing people here in record numbers. We must prioritise initiatives that safeguard this rather than jeopardise it.
Community engagement is paramount when evaluating projects of this significance. Local voices must be heard, and the decision-making process should be transparent. The residents of Geelong deserve thorough consultation and the opportunity to express their views and concerns.
The fact so many have spoken out against this project speaks to a lack of meaningful community engagement.
We live in an environment where many people jump to a uniformed opinion. There is an obligation on each of us to inform ourselves before taking a position. Not every proposal is bad.
There is also an obligation on the proponents of these types of projects to inform, as well as engage.
The Committee for Geelong went through an information gathering process, including a member forum in February of this year, where both the proponents and opponents addressed our membership to form a consensus that this project does not align to our vision and aspirations for Geelong.
We invite you to do your own research, form your own opinion, and share it.