Peninsula News reduces waste and litter
I note with interest the publication of the 400th edition of the Peninsula News, August 22, and the editor's comments on Page 13.
It is a genuine "news" paper.
I do not support home delivery of local newspapers, as it is not progressive.
In April 2016, I provided to Gosford Council comment on the waste and litter problem created by the management of the Express Advocate.
Distribution of the Express Advocate editions to every property regardless of demand, occupancy and weather conditions creates waste, litter, security and aesthetic issues.
What happens to wet copies? How many are recycled? How many add to contaminated waste? How many households require advertising interspersed with news items?
Is the Express Advocate more about news or advertising?
Mark Snell, Peninsula News editor, stated on page 13 of the 400th edition: "...with an emphasis on news rather than advertising" the Peninsula News provides more information relevant to the local area than the Express Advocate.
Walking around the Peninsula, I have personally observed 30 copies of Express Advocates in two properties on Ocean Beach Rd, an inordinate number of uncollected, damaged copies of the Express Advocate destined, I believe, for the red garbage bin, then landfill.
The Peninsula News' efficient distribution system reduces waste and litter, improves streetscapes, adds to recycling and is available at locations small and large throughout the Peninsula.
An independent assessment of alternate distribution methods, I believe, would show a distinct waste and recycling benefit for the Peninsula News and residents.
The response from the Gosford Council staff regarding Express Advocate distribution was indifferent.
If the waste and litter issue is not within the narrow responsibility of the council, then I recommend that the public initiate enquiries to the editor of the Express Advocate for action.
Pass the buck: This is why waste and litter will continue to be a problem for all responsible residents and Mr Johnston of Clean4Shore.
Email, 25 Aug 2016
Norman Harris, Umina