Monday, June 26, 2023

Georges Riverkeeper releases guide to best practice planning, design and procurement for gross pollutant traps

Not all GPTs are created equally. This particular GPT in Liverpool area had multiple issues that were identified as part of the GPT auditing.
Not all GPTs are created equally. This particular GPT in Liverpool area has multiple issues.

GPTs are a widely used, practical, and cost-effective structural solution to trap and remove litter and gross pollution from stormwater runoff.

The construction and operation of adequately planned, located, specified, and designed gross pollution traps (GPTs) is seen as one of the solutions in the war against gross pollution and litter which easily migrates and becomes local waterway and marine debris.

Georges Riverkeeper recently collaborated with Sutherland Shire Council, Optimal Stormwater and Water Sensitive Cities Australia (WSCA) to carry out the Assessment of Gross Pollutants (GPT) Project in the Georges River Catchment, as part of the Zero Litter in Georges River project, funded by the Australian Government, that aims to reduce litter flowing to the river via stormwater.

The project involved conducting a literature review of the GPT industry, engaging stakeholders, developing conceptual models, testing the guidelines in the field, and preparing a Practical Guide for GPT Planning, Design and Procurement. This guide is intended to provide support to Georges Riverkeeper member Councils in their GPT planning, design, specification, and operation activities.

The practical guide encompasses various areas for Councils to reference and use to develop customized GPT programs that cater to the specific needs of their Local Government Areas (LGA).

Targeted towards planners, engineers, asset managers, and consultants, the guide encourages discussion and collaboration among all stakeholders.

While the primary audience for the guide is Georges Riverkeeper member Councils, the suggestions, guidance, and recommendations it offers could be applied by a developer or Council involved in managing gross pollution and litter.

The ultimate goal is to achieve zero litter in the Georges River, and the success of each LGA's GPT program will contribute to this objective.

Through these collaborative efforts, Georges Riverkeeper aims to foster a cleaner and more positive future for the communities and waterways of the Georges River Catchment.

Read the Practical Guide for GPT Planning, Design and Procurement here.