Image: NSW EPA
By JUSTIN COOPER
The NSW Government has announced a public initiative to help reach environment and recycling targets, through managing plastic packaging and single-use plastic waste.
Released on Sunday, the “NSW Plastics: Next Steps” discussion paper aims to move the state towards the goal of minimising plastic litter by 30 percent by 2025.
The paper plans to receive insight into plastic products that are commonly contributing to waste. Plastic items including lollipop sticks, cigarette butts, and bread tags are could potentially be redesigned or completely phased out within the state.
It is estimated that NSW annually generates 800,000 tonnes of plastic waste, with only 12 percent of the waste being recycled. Plastic packaging and single-use plastics contribute to 60 percent of all litter in NSW.
Describing the significant amount of waste, Minister for the Environment Penny Sharpe said, “By 2050 there may be more plastic than fish by weight in the world’s oceans.”
“Plastic has become so widespread that we are constantly eating, drinking and breathing it in,” said Sharpe.
“We must act. By working together, we can make a real difference and leave the environment in a better state for our children.”
Community feedback
From Sunday, October 29, the discussion paper will accept public consultation on the three key areas of waste; reducing plastic litter, taking action on harmful chemicals and microplastics.
“The NSW Government wants to hear your thoughts on what plastic items we should target to minimise harmful impacts on the NSW environment, animals and communities,” says Sharpe.
In 2022, NSW banned many single-use plastic times including light weight plastic bags, cotton buds, and plastic cutlery and dishes.
A majority of states and territories have also implemented similar bans as NSW. Western Australia and the ACT have extended bans to include plastic food trays and packaging.
In 2024, South Australia plans to implement an array of bans, including fresh produce bags, plastic coffee cups and lids, bread tags, balloon ties and many more.
Through public feedback, the NSW government aims to recognise unnecessary plastic contributors and ensure the state is keeping pace with other states and territories.
To view and make submissions to the paper, visit the NSW EPA website. Click here.
Submissions close February 4, 2024.
