Australia has officially enacted the Recycling and Waste Reduction (Export – Waste Paper and Cardboard) Rules 2024 – landmark legislation that extends regulatory oversight to waste paper and cardboard, aligning them with other regulated export streams such as glass, plastic, and tyres.
[See the Federal Register of Legislation.]
The implementation of these rules, announced by the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW), represents a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to curb waste generation and promote recycling.
The Recycling and Waste Reduction Act 2020, which serves as the legislative backbone for these regulations, underscores Australia’s commitment to reducing waste, boosting recycling rates, and nurturing the growth of the domestic recycling industry.
Effective from 1 July 2024, the Rules introduce a licensing requirement for exporters dealing with mixed or unsorted paper and cardboard. However, to facilitate a smooth transition, the mandate to hold a licence before exporting these materials will be enforced from 1 October 2024. DCCEEW said this grace period allows exporters ample time to submit their licence applications and undergo the necessary processing.
Clean and sorted paper and cardboard are not regulated under the Rules and an export licence will not be required for these materials.
This exemption aims to streamline the export process for materials that meet specific quality standards, thereby encouraging responsible recycling practices.
DCCEEW is currently accepting licence applications, urging exporters to submit their requests at the earliest convenience. To ensure prompt processing, applicants must provide comprehensive documentation, adhering to the department’s guidelines.
Failure to obtain a valid licence by 1 October 2024 will result in restrictions on the export of mixed or unsorted paper and cardboard.
For more information on how to make an application for a mixed or unsorted paper and cardboard waste export licence, click here.
