Australia Recycled Plastic Rides High on Increased Plastic Consumption and Government Initiatives
Australia has emerged as one of the major recyclers of plastic waste globally due to a steady rise in plastic consumption and stringent government policies promoting recycling and reuse.
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Rising Plastic Consumption in Australia
Plastic consumption in Australia has increased substantially over the past decade led by rapid urbanization, changing lifestyles, and economic growth. Per capita plastic consumption increased from 108 kg per person in 2010 to 138 kg per person in 2020. Queensland recorded the highest per capita plastic usage at nearly 150 kg followed by Western Australia. Significant plastic is utilized across industries such as packaging, construction, automotive, healthcare, and electronics. The rising plastic consumption inevitably increases the plastic waste generation putting pressure on waste management systems. This has turned plastic recycling into a lucrative business opportunity.
Government Initiatives to Boost Recycling Rates
The Australian government has aggressively promoted plastic recycling through various policy initiatives to reduce the country's reliance on landfills and develop a circular economy. The 2025 National Packaging Targets mandate all packaging to be reusable, recyclable, or compostable by 2025. Financial incentives in the form of grants are provided to local councils and businesses investing in new recycling infrastructure. Landfill levies charged on accepting waste for landfilling also encourage diversion of plastic waste towards recycling. The phase-out of single-use plastics such as straws, cutlery, and stirrers by 2023 will additionally boost the demand for recycled plastics.
Australia Recycled Plastic Rides with Government Initiatives - https://www.coherentmi.com/blog/australia-recycled-plastic-rides-high-on-increased-plastic-consumption-and-government-initiatives-113
