What are Australia's new packaging reforms focusing on?

Australia's reforms focus on enhancing packaging recyclability, increasing recycled content, and implementing Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR).

How will APCO's packaging reform impact the Australian economy?

APCO's reforms are projected to attract A$220 million in private investment, support 19,000 jobs, and add A$2.5 billion in economic value.

What is Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) in Australia's packaging context?

EPR holds producers financially and operationally responsible for the management of their packaging waste at the end of its life.

Home / Environment / Australia's Plastic Waste Fight: New Rules Announced

Australia's Plastic Waste Fight: New Rules Announced

18 Jan

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Summary

National packaging reform targets improved recyclability and increased recycled content.
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) will hold producers accountable for end-of-life packaging.
Reforms project significant environmental gains and over A$2.5 billion economic value by 2030.

Australia's Plastic Waste Fight: New Rules Announced

Australia is implementing comprehensive national packaging reforms to establish consistent rules, improve recyclability, and increase the use of recycled materials, thereby supporting a circular economy. These reforms, agreed upon by federal and state environment ministers, aim to strengthen packaging standards and significantly reduce waste.

The initiative introduces Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) to hold producers accountable for the end-of-life management of their packaging. This policy is designed to ensure a baseline of sustainability contributions from businesses and encourage those already investing in better packaging design. This move addresses challenges where virgin plastic is cheaper than recycled alternatives, hindering domestic recycling markets.