The New South Wales Government is intensifying its commitment to reducing the impacts of plastic pollution by inviting public contributions.
Aiming to prevent the 800,000 tonnes of plastic waste produced annually from adversely affecting both environmental and human health, the government is soliciting feedback on its newly released 'NSW Plastics: Next Steps' discussion paper.
The discussion paper outlines a comprehensive strategy to reduce plastic litter by 30% by 2025, minimise the detrimental effects of microplastics, and synchronise policies with other Australian states and territories.
While plastics serve essential functions in various products, their single-use and non-biodegradable nature has led to significant environmental consequences.
A mere 12% of plastic waste is currently recycled, posing long-term risks to wildlife, human health and the climate.
Three core areas of concern
The paper identifies three primary areas of concern: items frequently littered or releasing microplastics, those containing harmful chemical additives, and materials already regulated in other jurisdictions.
Items like lollipop sticks, cigarette butts, bread tags, and heavyweight plastic bags are targeted for potential redesign or phase-out.
"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,” NSW Minister for the Environment Penny Sharpe said.
“NSW alone generates 800,000 tonnes of plastic waste each year and only 12% of it is recycled. We must act.
“By working together, we can make a real difference and leave the environment in a better state for our children.
“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."
Public consultation is open from 29 October 2023 to 4 February 2024 via the New South Wales Environment Protection Authority platform.
All received feedback will inform future actions to address the plastic waste dilemma.