Media Release - 29 October 2024
Australians sceptical of government efforts to increase recycling
Fewer than half of all Australians believe any level of government is adequately supporting recycling improvements, new research from Planet Ark has revealed.
Just 43 percent of those surveyed agreed that the federal government was doing enough to increase recycling rates nationally, while 44 percent agreed their state government was doing enough in their state and 46 per cent agreed their local council was doing enough in their area.
In contrast, almost three in four Australians believe they are doing enough to increase recycling rates in their own home, revealing a belief that legislation is necessary for greater improvements in recycling rates around the country.
Municipal solid waste remains a significant contributor to overall waste levels, especially in key material streams such as clothing and other textiles, packaging, and most significantly food waste.
The research was carried out to understand attitudes towards recycling in Australia and promote waste reduction ahead of National Recycling Week (November 11-17). Established by Planet Ark in 1996, National Recycling Week provides an important platform for engaging Australians in recycling and sustainable habits.
“As one of the highest producers of waste per capita globally, Australia faces an urgent need to transform its waste and consumption habits,” said Rebecca Gilling, Planet Ark.
“National Recycling Week provides an opportunity to take collective action, reduce the need for additional resource extraction, and cut greenhouse gas emissions.”
The campaign’s call to action, Join the Cycle, encourages councils, workplaces, schools, and individuals to improve recycling knowledge and build better recycling practices. The campaign also urges waste reduction through other activities such as refusing or reducing consumption and repairing and reusing what we already have.
Planet Ark has produced a range of resources for Australians seeking to reduce waste and increase recycling this National Recycling Week, whether at home, work, school or within communities. To access these learning tools and guides, or additional details on how to participate in National Recycling Week 2024, visit nationalrecyclingweek.com.au.
National Recycling Week is made possible by Major Sponsor Coles, Associate Sponsors Coca-Cola Australia, Mobile Muster and Tetra Pak, Media Partner Seven West Media and Supporting Sponsors Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation and Cartridges 4 Planet Ark.
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Key Facts:
- Fewer than half of all Australians believe any level of government is adequately supporting recycling improvements.
- 43% of those surveyed agree the federal government is doing enough to increase recycling rates nationally
- 44% of those surveyed agree the state government is doing enough to increase recycling rates in their state
- 46% of those surveyed agree their local government is doing enough to increase recycling rates in their area
- 73% of those surveyed believe they are doing enough to increase recycling rates in their own home
- National Recycling Week (November 11-17) was established by Planet Ark in 1996 as an opportunity to engage Australians in recycling and other sustainable habits
*Research was conducted by Pollinate as part of the Pulse Report, a bi-annual quantitative study that measures environmental, social and economic issues and concerns.
**Nationally representative sample, Australians aged 14-64, n=1,006
About us:
About Planet Ark
Planet Ark Environmental Foundation is an Australian not-for-profit organisation with a vision of a world where people live in balance with nature. Established in 1992, it is one of Australia’s leading environmental behaviour change organisations with a focus on working collaboratively and positively. Planet Ark promotes and creates simple, positive environmental actions – for everyone.
About National Recycling Week
Planet Ark’s National Recycling Week, founded in 1996, highlights the environmental benefits of re-use and recycling programs, while making participation enjoyable and easy through community events and programs. The dates for National Recycling Week in 2023 are 11-17 November 2023.
Contact details:
For further information, interviews or images please contact:
Liam Taylor
Communications Manager
02 8484 7205 / 0449 530 525