Here’s what happens to our plastic recycling when it goes offshore – Australia

Here’s what happens to our plastic recycling when it goes offshore – Australia

Posted on January 31, 2019 by DrRossH in Plastic Limiting Regulations

Since China stopped accepting Australia’s recyclable plastic, the majority of exported plastic waste is now going to developing nations in South East Asia.

Source: Here’s what happens to our plastic recycling when it goes offshore

While there may be times it makes sense to export our plastics overseas where they are used for manufacturing, the plastics should be clean and uncontaminated. Processes should be in place to make sure they are recycled without causing added harm to communities and local environments.

Australia and other advanced economies need to think seriously about the future of exports, our own collection systems and our “waste” relationships with our neighbours.