Peak plastics body welcomes national degradable standards

Commonwealth, State and Territory environment ministers met in Adelaide last Friday 7th of November at the 17th meeting of the Environment Protection and Heritage Council (EPHC).

In an important step forward, the Council endorsed funding for the development of a full suite of Australian Standards for degradable and biodegradable plastics. This important measure will assist in providing certainty to industry and allow for greater consumer choice in efforts to achieve long-term environmental benefits.

Chief Executive of the Plastics and Chemicals Industries Association, Margaret Donnan, said, “We welcome the EPHC commitment to develop a full suite of nationally consistent Australian Standards for degradable plastics”.

“It is vitally important that consumers, government and industry have access to reliable, science-based information when making decisions designed to reduce the environmental impact of litter”.

The plastics and chemicals industries have previously committed to ‘Using Degradable Plastics in Australia: A Product Stewardship Guide and Commitment’, which is a voluntary collaborative initiative developed in partnership with the Australian Government Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts.

“The industry guide provides leadership in the area and helps companies make balanced and informed decisions regarding degradable plastic products and the environment. Along with the recently announced Australian Standards, it helps provide certainty for consumers, government and industry”.

“The plastics and chemicals industries look forward to continuing to work closely with all Australian governments and the community to provide practical solutions”.

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John Osborn, Manager Strategic Communications, (03) 9426 3809.