ACCC Backs New Soft Plastics Recycling Scheme
Source: dairynews.today
The ACCC proposes a new soft plastics recycling scheme with major brands like Nestlé and Mars, aiming to solve Australia's waste crisis.
In a significant environmental initiative, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has proposed an eight-year authorization for an industry-led soft plastics recycling scheme. This scheme, managed by the non-profit Soft Plastics Stewardship Australia (SPSA), seeks to address the nation's critical waste issue, particularly in the agribusiness sector. Major corporations such as Nestlé, Mars, and McCormick, alongside supermarkets like Woolworths, Coles, and Aldi, are collaborating in this voluntary effort. The scheme's objective is to enhance the collection and recycling of soft plastic packaging, including shopping bags and food wrappers.
Deputy Chair of ACCC, Mick Keogh, heralded the initiative as a pivotal step in expanding Australia's recycling capabilities. In 2022-2023, over 540,000 tonnes of soft plastic packaging were produced, with only 6% being recovered, highlighting the scheme's importance. The program promises significant environmental benefits by diverting soft plastics from landfills, outweighing any potential anti-competitive impacts, as per ACCC's assessment. The initiative is open to public commentary until August 25, moving forward with a mandate to spearhead a more sustainable future for waste management in Australia.
Deputy Chair of ACCC, Mick Keogh, heralded the initiative as a pivotal step in expanding Australia's recycling capabilities. In 2022-2023, over 540,000 tonnes of soft plastic packaging were produced, with only 6% being recovered, highlighting the scheme's importance. The program promises significant environmental benefits by diverting soft plastics from landfills, outweighing any potential anti-competitive impacts, as per ACCC's assessment. The initiative is open to public commentary until August 25, moving forward with a mandate to spearhead a more sustainable future for waste management in Australia.
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