Also a Role for Councils
The Tasmanian Greens today said the Environment Minister Brian Wightman must stop relying on national moves on container deposit schemes, but must instead push for a state-based scheme.
Greens Environment spokesperson Cassy O’Connor MP today also called on all newly-elected local councillors to join the push for State-based Container Deposit Legislation (CDL) as a vital step towards fixing the state’s appalling litter problem.
“It is disappointing to hear Minister Wightman roll out the tired old excuse that he is waiting for action at the national level on container deposit reform which has been an excuse made by successive Tasmanian Environment Ministers for taking no action at all,” Ms O’Connor said.
“There’s no indication that Mr Wightman has been progressing this issue at the national level as he has promised he would do, and many Tasmanians are now fed up with the lack of action.”
“Minister after minister has used the national option as an excuse for procrastination. This must cease in the interests of the environment they are charged with protecting.”
“Despite his lack of a progressive stance on forestry issues in Tasmania, I am pleased to see Greg Hall MLC bring this issue before the Upper House.”
“Councils play a central role in the collection of waste and recycling so we are arguing that they also engage on the important issue of implementing a container deposit scheme in Tasmania.”
“Surveys show that the overwhelming majority of Tasmanians support the introduction of container deposit legislation here and the Greens are urging all to councils to examine the issue and reach a unified position that reflects community expectations.”
“The Greens have continuously been calling for Container Deposit Legislation in Tasmania in the absence of a national policy, as a simple and effective measure to reduce the impact of disposable containers in our waterways, recreational areas and roadsides, as well as create local jobs.
“Tasmania has the worst litter rates in the nation, and a Container Deposit Scheme would go a long way to ensuring our clean, green reputation matches the reality,” Ms O’Connor said.
Cassy O’Connor MP Greens Environment Spokesperson
