Australia generates a staggering 2.5 million tonnes of plastic waste annually, which equates to around 100 kilograms per person, with soft plastics forming a significant portion (around 190,000 tonnes). Every bread bag, crisp packet, and piece of plastic cling wrap we use contributes to the problem, filling up landfill or potentially harming our environment and wildlife. It is predicted that by 2025, 99 per cent of seabirds worldwide will have ingested plastic in some form.

The recent announcement that soft plastic recycling would return to select stores in Melbourne should therefore be something to celebrate, right? Yes and no.

While the return of soft plastic recycling is encouraging, it's crucial to remember that recycling should not be our default solution. It's an energy-intensive process with limitations, and recycled plastic isn't always recycled again. Instead, we should shift our focus towards waste reduction and plastic avoidance.

Here's the good news: we have the power to make a difference by changing our everyday habits. This isn't new news, the solutions have been out there for a long time. By refusing single-use plastics whenever possible, we can significantly reduce our reliance on recycling and ultimately, the amount of plastic ending up in landfills.

So, opt for reusable shopping bags, containers, and produce bags. Choose products with minimal or no plastic packaging. Support brands committed to sustainable packaging solutions.

Even when recycling eventually becomes available, it's essential to be selective. Not all soft plastics are created equal. As with REDcycle, it will be important to check with your local supermarket for accepted materials and follow their guidelines carefully. Contaminated or mixed recyclables can disrupt the process and end up in landfill anyway. When disposing of packaging, always follow the Australasian Recycling Label to ensure packaging, bottles, and containers are disposed of correctly and can be recovered for future use in new products.

As consumers, we also have a voice. Demand transparency from manufacturers and retailers about their packaging choices. Support businesses that prioritise sustainable practices and hold them accountable for their environmental impact. To support Aussie social enterprises making a difference on the environment, check out our previous article.

Let's use this opportunity to advocate for better systems, reduce our reliance on single-use plastics, and ultimately move towards a circular economy where waste is minimised, and resources are reused responsibly. Every action, every conscious choice, contributes to a healthier planet for ourselves and future generations.

For recycling advice, visit Recycling Near You.

Planet Ark does not take responsibility for the accuracy of the original information and encourages readers to check the references before using this information for their own purposes.