Australia’s Environment Ministers Meet – more time wasting on waste issues?

Wednesday, 03 November 2010 10:13

Federal Environment Minister, Tony Burke will meet his state counterparts for the first time tomorrow to discuss solutions to the nation’s waste crisis, with crucial action already delayed many months.

“The Environment Protection and Heritage Council has a reputation for taking too long to make decisions; and while last year saw major announcements on a National Waste Policy to lift recycling; a Product Stewardship Act to divert products such as e-waste from landfill; and a national container deposits scheme – major delays have now set in,” said Jeff Angel, Director of Total Environment Centre.

“We urge Minister Burke and his colleagues to hit the accelerator.”

“The benefits from a container deposit system (CDS) are multiple and long lasting.  A massive reduction in litter; at least 80% recovery rate or 10 billion containers a year; and hundreds of new convenient drop-off centres that can take containers and other problem products such as e-waste and batteries.  Also the last three government supported studies have shown it financially benefits local councils and kerbside recycling,” said Ian Kiernan, Chair of CleanUp Australia.

“There is really no reason to delay a national CDS.”

“The Product Stewardship Act is particularly urgent as it gives legal force to product take-back schemes.  Already 236 million electronic items are in or on their way to landfill – only a few per cent of products are recycled.  Industry and environment groups are working together to develop a national recycling scheme which ministers promised would be introduced in 2011.  But it won’t happen without the new Act,” said Mr Angel.