Issues

Packaging & Waste

Product packaging takes valuable resources to produce, involves processes which pollute air and water, and is often thrown out at the end of its short life, ending up in landfill. Australia consumes over 3.4 million tonnes of packaging every year- that's about 165 kg per person - only 48% is recycled.

• Minimise Packaging. Remember the waste hierarchy – Avoid first, Reuse where possible, then Recycle.
• Buy in bulk where possible. BYO bags, BYO containers, doing take-away? BYO plate. Pack green groceries loose in a box or basket.
• Avoid double packaging and unlabeled plastic tubs.
• Recycle where possible – check out what your council curbside collection takes at www.recyclingnearyou.com.au
• Choose plastics ‘1’ & ‘2’ (commonly recycled within Australia) over 4, 5 & 6 where possible (often processed overseas). Avoid ‘3’ - PVC produces hazardous by-products (dioxins) when recycled.