Seventy-eight per cent of plasterboard is recovered for recycling in New Zealand, compared to 63.4 per cent in Europe and 55 per cent in the US and Australia. Jack Hayward, president of New Zealand’s Paperboard Packaging Association, attributed the Kiwis’
progress to improved kerbside collections, better industry recycling practices, greater public awareness and a surge in demand from the Asian markets.
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How will the government and DMOs address the challenges of including glass in DRS while ensuring a level playing field across the UK?
There's no easy solution to include glass in the DRS while maintaining a level playing field. Potential approaches include a phased introduction of glass, potentially with higher deposits to reflect its logistical challenges. The government and DMOs could incentivise innovation in glass packaging design and subsidise dedicated return points for glass-handling. Exemptions for smaller businesses unable to handle glass might also be necessary. Any successful solution will likely blend several approaches. It must address the differing priorities of devolved administrations, balance environmental benefits with logistical and cost implications, and be supported by robust consumer education campaigns emphasizing the importance of glass recycling.