A motion moved by Manly Council for container deposit legislation (CDL) and extended producer responsibility in all States and Territories was supported overwhelmingly by delegates. Local Government leaders from across Australia supported the South Australian lead and agreed to seek a commitment to CDL from the Commonwealth and other State Governments. CDL has operated successfully in South Australia for 25 years.
“CDL addresses serious ongoing litter problems and ensures the producers of beverages and packaging take full responsibility for their products,” said Australian Local Government Association President, Councillor John Ross. “Local Government is very concerned about the great majority of containers that find their way into the wastestream or cause environmental damage. There is also a significant cost to the community and Councils of collection and recycling.”
An independent review commissioned by the New South Wales Government has demonstrated the benefits of CDL and the final report by Dr Stuart White, from the Institute for Sustainable Futures, recommended its introduction. Dr White’s report found that the net benefit to New South Wales from CDL would be in the order of $70 –100 million per annum and provide an additional 1,000 to 1,500 full time jobs.
“Local Government is calling for immediate action by their State Governments on this important environmental issue,” Councillor Ross said.
