The target for the average recycled content in all packaging will increase from 30 per cent to 50 per cent under a new strategic framework launched this week setting out how Australia will achieve the 2025 National Packaging Targets.
“Out Packaging Future” the report underpinning the new framework was launched by the Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO) at an industry webinar attended by Federal Assistant Minister for Waste Reduction and Environment Management Trevor Evans.
Other key recommendations and approaches in the plan include:
- The launch of a National Consumer Education Campaign for sustainable packaging in 2020
- APCO to convene a Container Deposit Scheme National Working Group as a collaborative forum aiming to facilitate consistency and alignment of future closed-loop schemes
- APCO to explore and facilitate waste collection partnerships in regional and remote areas including potential collaboration with other product stewardship schemes where kerb-side collection is not feasible
- Voluntary code of practice for shopping bags with key stakeholders
- New reuse models for both consumer and B2B packaging
- For compostable packaging, develop a national strategy with industry and government partners.
- Explore extending the Australasian Recycling Label to include B2B packaging and recycled content.
- Develop a traceability and verification program for recycled content in packaging and products
APCO is the agency charged by government to make all packaging reusable, recyclable or compostable by 2025. To that end, it is working closely with government and industry to deliver a range of sustainable design, recycling, waste to landfill reduction and circular economy projects.
APCO chief executive Brooke Donnelly said: “The vision for this report is clear: building a packaging value chain that collaborates to keep packaging materials out of landfill and maximise the circular value of the materials, energy and labour within the local economy”.