Melbourne today plays host to a Senate Committee inquiring into the management of Australia’s waste streams.
Today’s is the second of four public hearings in four different cities being held as part of an inquiry initiated by South Australian Liberal Senator Simon Birmingham with a wide brief to examine how Australia manages its waste.
Senator Birmingham said the inquiry had been prompted by the failure of Labor federal and state governments to reach consensus on a national approach towards both the planned phase out of plastic bags and container deposit legislation.
“We need to be taking an holistic approach to the issue of waste management, rather than the Government’s piecemeal approach of picking off plastic bags or pursuing container deposit legislation in isolation,” Senator Birmingham said today.
“As policy makers, we need to be examining the use of natural resources, litter and landfill and how best to minimise greenhouse emissions, and then move on those initiatives that will make the greatest difference.
“I’m confident this inquiry will provide valuable information towards taking the holistic approach necessary as we manage waste as part of protecting the environment.”
Among organisations giving evidence to Senators today are packaging companies VISY Industries and AMCOR and other organisations such as the Boomerang Alliance, Revive Recycling Pty Ltd and Australians for Refunds on Cans and Bottles.
Today’s hearing of the Senate Standing Committee on Environment, Communications and the Arts starts at 9.00am at Management House, 181 Fitzroy Street, St Kilda.
Further details of the inquiry, including terms of reference, submissions, hearing dates and agendas, can be found at http://www.aph.gov.au/senate/committee/eca_ctte/aust_waste_streams/index.htm.