The roadmap outlines a strategy to improve the consistency and effectiveness of kerbside waste and recycling services across Australia. Key objectives include reducing landfill waste, improving recycling rates, and supporting a circular economy. The roadmap aims to address community confusion caused by inconsistent bin systems and service variability, which often result in contamination and lower recovery rates.
The table below sets out the key aspects of the roadmap:
National Standards for Bin Systems
Transition to consistent colours for bin lids, labels, and signs. Ensures compliance with Australian Standard S 4123.7-2006
– General waste: Red – Mixed recycling: Yellow – Paper and cardboard: Light blue – Glass recycling: Purple – Organics: Lime green
Minimum National Collection Lists
Defined recyclable and organic materials for kerbside collection to enhance clarity and uniformity.
Includes instructions on what can and cannot be collected.
Prioritised Actions for Expansion
Collaboration between governments and industries to expand capacity for collecting and recycling additional materials, including soft plastics, meat trays, and liquid paperboard.
Focus on improving the recovery of valuable materials through market development and technological innovation.
Implementation and Reviews
State and territory governments will work with local councils and industry to implement the roadmap starting in 2025.
Periodic reviews will evaluate progress, update collection lists, and address emerging needs.
The AFGC continues to engage with the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water to advocate for nationally harmonised collection systems and processing that align with packaging design standards to enable packaging circularity.
Contact
If you have any questions or wish to discuss the roadmap, please reach out to Sarah Collier, A/Director Sustainability (sarah.collier@afgc.org.au) or Kristy Barber, Manager Sustainability (kristy.barber@afgc.org.au)
