The NSW Government’s Plastics Action Plan has the potential to unlock new wood-based bioproduct industries, according to the Australian Forest Products Association NSW. Source: Timberbiz
Plastics such as single-use lightweight bags, cotton-buds, straws and stirrers will be phased out, and green bins for food and organic waste will be rolled out across the state, under the NSW Government’s com-prehensive plastics plan and waste strategy.
AFPA NSW CEO Sue Grau said NSW forest industries already played a significant role in the circular economy and stood ready to play a greater role in replacing plastics.
“Our industry is key for developing paper, cardboard and bioproduct alternatives for conventional plastics, boosting recycling and reducing waste, as well as lowering carbon emissions,” Ms Grau said.
“Wood and paper products can be used as replacements for single-use plastic items and other materials that have higher emissions intensity. This will contribute to a successful transition from fossil fuels,” she said.
“These innovations are happening right now in Australia and around the world: Woolworths offers paper bags made in Australia as an alternative to single-use plastic bags, Nestle is replacing plastic bottles and packaging with wood fibre bioplastics, and biochemicals made from wood residues are replacing fossil fuel-based chemicals in pharmaceuticals, agrichemicals and industrial solvents.”
Ms Grau said the NSW Government’s Action Plan had the potential to unlock new wood-based bioproduct industries and she looked forward to briefing the Government on these opportunities.
“The Berejiklian Government understands how vital forest industries are to the state’s economy, adding $7 billion annually and employing over 21,000 people,” she said.
“As an industry, we need to promote environmental benefits of using more forest products and we look forward to engaging with the Government to support the growth of our sustainable industry.”
