Recycling systems are great in theory, but a portion of what is tossed into the recycling bin never makes it to a second life as another product. Australia is attempting to make their recycling systems more efficient and reduce waste with a $190 million AUD investment toward overhauling the nation’s recycling system.
The change comes after China’s 2018 decision to stop accepting recycling waste from Australia. The country will improve waste systems for more effective sorting and conversion of tires, glass, plastic, and paper waste. Some of the waste will even find its way into roadways and carpets.
The program focuses on repurposing valuable materials back into the economy but also urges Australians to rethink their own consumption habits, buy less, and generate less waste overall.
Although the investment in more efficient recycling systems is a great start, some have argued it is not progressive enough. Peter Whish-Wilson, the waste and recycling spokesperson for the Greens Party, says the country should focus on developing a circular economy and preventing waste generation at the source.
In addition to recycling funds, the country will also give $35 million to the National Waste Policy Action Plan which strives to reduce total waste generated in Australia by 10 percent per person by 2030, half the amount of organic waste sent to landfills by 2030, and phase out unnecessary plastics by 2025.
Last week we shared a popular story on how to properly recycle aluminum foil. This is just one example of a commonly recycled material that isn’t always used to its full potential in recycling facilities. Hopefully, Australia’s initiative will provide a template for more efficient recycling systems around the world.
