National Litter Index 2014-15 Reports Tasmanian Results

The Hodgman Liberal Government is committed to reducing litter and reinforcing Tasmania’s clean natural brand values to leverage off the competitive advantage of our unique natural environment to create jobs and drive economic growth.

We welcome the release today of Keep Australia Beautiful’s National Litter Index, which provides an insight into our littering behaviour and is important feedback for Government and community organisations.

The National Litter Index records the number of pieces of litter found per 1,000 metres at various sites around the state, and offers a comparison between states and territories.

The figures for Tasmania show some welcome improvements, recording a better result this year than in the eight years prior to 2013-14. The number and volume of litter in 2014-15 with 73 items per 1000m, a slight increase from last year’s figure of 65 pieces per 1000m.

It’s pleasing to see that Tasmania is better than the national average in terms of volume, however we know we need to do more to reduce litter in Tasmania.

The Government takes this issue seriously and we have implemented a range of measures to tackle littering, including providing $30,000 to support Keep Australia Beautiful Tasmania’s programs, working cooperatively with the Federal Government and other jurisdictions to find a national solution and providing information and sessions for schools to assist with promoting awareness of a range of litter, waste management and sustainability issues.

Everyone can play their part to help reduce Tasmania’s littering record not just by disposing of rubbish appropriately, but by reporting those who don’t.

I encourage all Tasmanians to do the right thing and keep our environment clear of litter.
Matthew Groom, Minister for Environment, Parks and Heritage