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1. Getting Started

In this section you will be introduced to:

  • the purpose of the Waste Minimisation Act 2008 and the waste disposal levy
  • how the levy works and what the funds will be used for
  • the Online Waste Levy System (OWLS) including:
    • the different system user access types that determine which tasks you can complete in the system
    • how to set up or change your password
    • how to log into OWLS and navigate the system.

Introduction to the Waste Minimisation Act

The purpose of the Waste Minimisation Act is to encourage waste minimisation and a decrease in waste disposal to:

  • protect the environment from harm, and
  • provide environmental, social, economic and cultural benefits.

Introduction to the waste disposal levy

Review pages 2–3 of chapter 1 in the Calculation and Payment of the Waste Disposal Levy guide to learn about the purpose of the waste disposal levy, how it works, and what the funds collected will be used for.

Once you have reviewed the above information, answer the questions below to check your understanding.

  1. Question:Which of the following statements is incorrect?

    Answer:
    1. the levy came into effect on 1 July 2009
    2. the amount of the levy is $10 per tonne (excl GST)
    3. the levy provides an economic incentive to change behaviours and reduce the amount of waste generated
    4. all of the levy money collected will be allocated to territorial authorities on a population basis

  2. Where is further information about waste levy activities available from?

    Answer:
    1. 0800 WDLEVY
    2. www.wastelevy.govt.nz
    3. www.mfe.govt.nz/issues/waste
    4. info@wastelevy.govt.nz
    5. all of the above

Introduction to OWLS

Review chapter 1 (beginning on page 2) of the Online Waste Levy System guide to learn about the different system user access types, setting up and changing your password, logging into OWLS and navigating the system.

Once you have reviewed the above information, answer the questions below to check your understanding.

If you have already received an email with a link to the system, log in and familiarise yourself with the home page.

  1. Question: True or false? Data Entry users have access in OWLS to submit applications.

    Answer: True  /  False

  2. Question: True or false? Your OWLS user account will be locked if you enter an incorrect password three times.

    Answer: True  /  False

  3. Question: What is the minimum number of characters your OWLS password must contain?

    Answer:
    1. 6
    2. 7
    3. 8
    4. 9

  4. Question: Which of the following statements are correct if you have forgotten your password?

    Answer:
    1. contact the helpdesk on 0800 WDLEVY and provide your username
    2. use the Forgotten Password link and enter your username
    3. answers to challenge questions in the Validation screen are not case sensitive
    4. all of the above