Waste Minimisation Bill progresses

Tyres can pose a risk to the
environment when not
disposed of properly.

The Waste Minimisation Bill has just had its second reading in Parliament as this issue of Environz goes to print. The purpose of the bill is to encourage a reduction in the amount of waste we generate and dispose of in New Zealand and lessen the environmental harm of waste. The bill emphasises investment in ‘front-of-pipe’ solutions to waste, encouraging material efficiency, innovation, and good design.

In a nutshell, the act:

puts a levy on all waste disposed of in a landfill
helps and, when necessary makes, producers, brand owners, importers, retailers, consumers and other parties take responsibility for the environmental effects of their products – from ‘cradle-to-grave’
allows for regulations that make reporting on waste mandatory for territorial authorities and operators of landfills and recycling facilities with the aim of improving information on waste
clarifies the roles and responsibilities of territorial authorities with respect to waste minimisation
introduces a new board to give independent advice to the Minister for the Environment on waste minimisation issues.

For more information email jeffrey.seadon@mfe.govt.nz or phone (04) 439 7630.

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