Research reveals Australians sceptical of government efforts to increase recycling

Fewer than half of all Australians believe any level of government is adequately supporting recycling improvements, according to new research.

Released by Planet Ark ahead of National Recycling Week, from 11-17 November, the research shows just 43 per cent of those surveyed agreed that the Federal Government was doing enough to increase recycling rates nationally.

Forty-four per cent 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 food waste.

Rebecca Gilling, Planet Ark Chief Executive Officer, said Australia, one of the highest producers of waste per capita globally, faces an urgent need to transform its waste and consumption habits.

“National Recycling Week provides an opportunity to take collective action, reduce the need for additional resource extraction, and cut greenhouse gas emissions,” she said.

Established by Planet Ark in 1996, National Recycling Week provides a platform for engaging Australians in recycling and sustainable habits.

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 refuse, reduce, repair and reuse.

Planet Ark has produced a range of resources for Australians seeking to reduce waste and increase recycling this National Recycling Week.

For more information, nationalrecyclingweek.com.au