A parliamentary committee will look into federal waste reduction and recycling policies and progress towards a circular economy.

The Senate Environment and Communications Committee says on its website that it will consider a range of issues including the domestic and international impact of recycling export regulations, and progress on the implementation of mandated product stewardship schemes.

Terms of reference:

The effectiveness of the Albanese Labor Government’s waste reduction and recycling policies in delivering a circular economy, with reference to: 

• Recycling export regulations imposed through the Recycling and Waste Reduction Act 2020, including ramifications for Australia’s international and domestic commitments and obligations under the Act; benefits and consequences of imposing the requirements on the Australian industry; and economic benefits of the legislation 
• Efficacy and progress on circular economy deliverables; 
• Progress on the implementation of mandated product stewardship schemes
• Any other related matters

Green Senator Peter Whish-Wilson says the inquiry will provide an opportunity to “take the pulse” on the current state of waste reduction and recycling in Australia.

Action on regulating waste has failed to match the rhetoric, he says, and the government isn’t keeping pace with its own waste targets including a national goal of recovering 70 per cent of plastic by 2025.

“It’s time to take a pulse check on where the government are at following numerous statements of intent followed by little action,” Senator Whish-Wilson said in a statement.

“Organic waste issues, e-waste issues, the push for more waste to energy facilities and the government’s approach to reforming the entire waste and recycling ecosystem will fall under the scope of this inquiry.”

The committee is currently taking public submissions and will report back by November 22.