Overview
Waste and resource recovery is increasingly becoming a matter of national importance, and the circular economy is regarded as a top priority across the entire waste sector, and all levels of government. It is not only of importance to government and business, but individuals as well.
The value of resources and extending the life of materials is recognised as being of great significance. Now more than ever, communities are making informed decisions about the way items are produced, purchased, and eventually disposed of.
Nationally, we are moving away from being a single use, disposable society and are moving toward developing a strong circular economy, whereby ‘waste’ is recaptured and recirculated in the economy. Improved waste management has many benefits including reduction in health and environmental problems, and benefits to the economy.
On a national, state, regional and local level, government organisations are working together to improve waste management which is being done through the following strategies and action plans:
- National Waste Policy 2018
- National Waste Policy Action Plan 2019
- National Plastics Plan 2021
- NSW Waste and Sustainable Materials Strategy 2041
- NSW Waste and Sustainable Materials Strategy- A Guide to Infrastructure Needs
- NSW Plastic Action Plan 2021
- Western Sydney Regional Litter Plan 2016- 2021
- Western Sydney Regional Waste Avoidance and Resource Recovery Strategy 2017- 2021
These policies, strategies and action plans provide a framework to sustainably manage waste, improve resource recovery and drive the circular economy. To find out more about each of these documents, click on the tabs below.