Waste reduction and management

The amount of waste we generate and how we reduce and manage it has a huge impact on our carbon footprint, our greenhouse gas emissions and our ability to operate a sustainable economy.

Drivers for change

We have a national waste strategy and an emissions reduction plan.

We know that our ability to export our products overseas depends increasingly on our reputation for managing resources responsibly and sustainably and that extends to how we manage our waste.

We also know that the way in which we dispose of our waste and the effects that has on our environment should be culturally appropriate.

What we heard

• Make it easier and cheaper to recycle or dispose of waste responsibly.
• Ensure landfill and recycling facilities can't pollute nearby land and water.

What we can influence

• We can advocate for and contribute to better education about reducing waste generation and best-practice recycling, re-use or disposal.
• We can give stronger direction and provide more support for appropriate waste facilities in the right places.
• We can give greater recognition to, and help educate people about, the role of waste management in reducing our contribution to climate change.