The Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO) has published a new resource – Roadmap to implement the national phase-out of business-to-consumer expanded polystyrene (EPS) packaging.
Developed by industry in consultation with the federal, state and territory governments, the roadmap sets out a voluntary, industry-led approach to address the environmental impacts associated with EPS packaging in Australia.
The roadmap includes the implementation of the National Plastics Plan phase-out of EPS in consumer loose fill, moulded consumer packaging, and consumer food and beverage containers, along with the National Packaging Target to phase out problematic and unnecessary single-use plastic packaging by 2025.
Strong progress has already been made towards the phase-out of EPS by a number of APCO members and the broader industry.
This roadmap builds on these initiatives to accelerate the phase-out of consumer EPS packaging in order to meet the requirements outlined in the National Plastics Plan.
“If your business currently uses EPS, this resource will help you discover how to adopt more sustainable packaging alternatives and accelerate the phase-out,” said Chris Foley, CEO of APCO.
“This roadmap defines a clear approach for businesses to make the switch to more recyclable packaging alternatives, and meet the expectations of the National Plastics Plan and the 2025 National Packaging Targets.
“Phasing out EPS is a significant priority and it is pleasing to see that an impressive amount of work to phase out these materials has already been taken by industry. By working together, we can phase out problematic and unnecessary single-use plastic packaging by 2025.”
EPS packaging included in the scope of this roadmap includes:
- EPS loose fill consumer packaging, such as peanut shaped loose foam packaging;
- EPS moulded consumer packaging, such as protective packaging of goods, including, but not limited to, computers, TVs, printers, fridges and furniture; and
- EPS food and beverage food containers, such as single-use cups, plates and clamshells.
For more detail on the roadmap, click here.
