MEDIA RELEASE: JAMES STEVENS MP
NATIONAL PLASTICS SUMMIT SIGNALS CHANGES FOR PLASTIC RECYCLING
The Morrison Government has concluded the first ever National Plastics Summit, reinforcing its commitment to working with industry to increase our recycling capabilities, ensuring markets for recycled products and reducing plastic waste.
James Stevens, Member for Sturt said Monday’s National Plastics Summit, attended by more than 200 representatives from local and global businesses, state and local government, industry and community sectors has set the tone for the future of plastic waste management in Australia.
“The Prime Minister has outlined three pillars of action around recycling plastic waste. First and most importantly, we need to take responsibility for our waste,” Mr Stevens said.
“We can all do our part in Sturt, such as encouraging demand for recycled products at home and by purchasing products that are re-usable, as opposed to those intended for single use.
“And, through Government intervention, we know that banning the export of waste plastics will keep more of the raw stock here for remanufacting, helping to lift industry capacity and our ability to use these materials constructively.
“These are the first of a number of measures the Morrison Government will take to build demand and capacity in the sector.”
Across from Capital Hill in Old Parliament House, students from around Australia met with the Governor General and Her Excellency Mrs Hurley and discussed issues around plastic waste and recycling.
“It was fantastic to see and to hear students from across Australia get involved and show true leadership in this area. They sent a message of hope along with the conviction that we can and should make a difference,” Mr Stevens said.
The Morrison Government also announced that it would change Commonwealth Procurement Guidelines to make sure every procurement undertaken by a Commonwealth agency considers environmental sustainability and use of recycled content as a factor in determining value for money.
James Stevens MP:
Aric Pierce | 0435 018 371 | Aric.Pierce@aph.gov.au
Background:
Some key industry pledges made as part of the Summit were: