Harvey goes eco-friendly by avoiding single-use-plastics with the instalment of a new drink fountain

A new drinking fountain has been installed in the heart of the Harvey townsite in the hope of ending the reign of single-use plastics. It comes after the introduction of a single-use plastics policy by the Shire of Harvey in April. The policy aims to significantly reduce plastic use within the shire, as well as influence the local business and retail industry sectors to provide more eco-friendly products, according to Shire documents. “(The aim is) to provide controls and behavioural changes that minimise potential adverse impacts of single-use plastics on the community and the environment,” the document stated. Mainstreet committee president Joe Capogreco said he hoped the installation of the drinking fountain would encourage residents to join the worldwide movement to reduce plastic waste. “Each year, 660,000 tonnes of plastic waste is created by Australians, and we all need to do our bit to reduce this alarming quantity,” he said. “This is a piece of street infrastructure which can be used by all the community and adds additional services to the people of Harvey.” Harvey Shire president Paul Gillett said it was a great initiative which was in line with the council’s single-use policy. “It is important we promote actions that prioritise avoiding single-use plastics and that we substitute single-use items for reusable alternatives wherever possible,” Cr Gillett said. The drinking fountain — which includes a water spout, two water bottle refill stations, and a dog bowl — has been installed on the corner of Young Street and Uduc Road. The project was initiated by Harvey Mainstreet with further support from the Shire, Harvey Rotary Club and Harvey Water.