APCO response statement to NEPM Review

21 January 2022

The Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment has commissioned an independent review into the co-regulatory framework that underpins the National Environment Protection (Used Packaging Materials) 2021 (the NEPM). The review is a process that takes place every five years and is designed to ensure that Australia has an effective system in place to manage our packaging.    

APCO welcomes the review’s findings and recommendations for building a stronger and more robust co-regulatory framework. 

As anticipated, the report highlights a number of strengths and weaknesses within the current model. It is fantastic to see the review recognise industry’s powerful momentum towards the 2025 National Packaging Targets, including the range of positive programs and resources in place including the Australasian Recycling Label Program, the ANZPAC Plastics Pact and the Sustainable Packaging Guidelines. 

APCO strongly supports the reforms set out within the report. Greater national consistency, clearer KPIs and stronger compliance and enforcement will all accelerate Australia’s progress towards the 2025 Targets.  

An ambitious program of work will be critical for achieving these changes. This includes both immediate actions to support the delivery of the 2025 Targets, as well as longer term, strategic reforms to implement a stronger legislative and administrative model for managing packaging beyond 2025. APCO looks forward to partnering closely with industry and government to formulate, design and build an effective framework to deliver a strong, sustainable packaging future in Australia. 

-ENDS-

NOTES TO EDITORS

MEDIA CONTACT

Alex Whitaker: alex@horizoncg.com.au / 0423410353

ABOUT AUSTRALIAN PACKAGING COVENANT ORGANISATION

The Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO) is the agency charged by government to make all packaging reusable, recyclable or compostable by 2025. To achieve this goal, APCO is working closely with government and industry to deliver a range of sustainable design, recycling, waste to landfill reduction and circular economy projects. Recognised as one of Australia’s leading product stewardship organisations with a strong national and global collaborative network, APCO is committed to reducing the environmental impact of packaging on Australian communities by moving towards a circular economy.

Further information: www.apco.org.au.