A new Federal Government – moving from promises and policy to action?
The Albanese Government came to power in May 2022 on a platform of change. For those of us looking for more positives on plastic pollution that meant at least a couple of things. Internationally we wanted Australia to sign a treaty on plastic pollution and to take the high ambition path proposed by the Europeans. This looks likely.
Domestically we want the Commonwealth, as they promised in Opposition, to introduce new regulations on packaging that makes producers responsible. The recent collapse of the REDcycle collection program, has dramatically illustrated why this is essential. We also need national standards on reusable, compostable and recyclable products and packaging. The standards have to ensure that products marked as such are actually reused, composted or recycled.
Lastly, we need more from the Commonwealth National Plastic Plan. For example the Plan announced in 2021, identified bans on oxo-degradable and polystyrene foodware and loose packaging as well as PVC labels. These were supposed to be in place in 2022. As we write nothing has been achieved. It should have a major revision, including mandatory targets.
We are looking for more positive leadership and significant policy change from this new government and we will be working to make sure this happens.
Jeff Angel Director
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