Plastic pollution in committee’s sights

THE House of Representatives Standing Committee on Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water has commenced a new inquiry into plastic pollution in Australia’s oceans and waterways.

In launching the inquiry, Committee Chair, Tony Zappia MP said, "Australia produces some 2.5 million tonnes of plastic waste annually and of this, around 130,000 tonnes leaks into the environment, including our oceans and waterways.

"The impact of plastic pollution on marine environments is significant, particularly as larger plastic items break down and leave microplastic remnants that are absorbed by plants, wildlife, and humans," Mr Zappia said.

"The inquiry will consider the effectiveness of existing frameworks and engagement initiatives aimed at reducing plastic pollution while also examining impactful approaches across the world."

The committee’s inquiry will examine the impact of plastic pollution, including microplastics, having regard to:

• the environmental impacts of plastic pollution particularly in oceans and waterways;
• the effectiveness of Australia’s plastics management framework under the National Plastics Plan and related policies to reduce plastic pollution particularly in oceans and waterways;
• the effectiveness of the Australian Government’s engagement with states, territories, industry and non-government organisations to reduce plastic pollution particularly in oceans and waterways;
• the effectiveness of community campaigns to reduce plastic pollution particularly in oceans and waterways and encourage the use of alternative materials;
• global initiatives underway to reduce plastic pollution particularly in oceans and waterways;
• any other relevant matter.

The committee is inviting submissions to the inquiry addressing any or all of the terms of reference by December 22, 2022.

Further information about the committee’s inquiry is available on its website.

 

ends