The ACT requires all packaging at public events be recyclable or compostable but most of it ends up in landfill
Most compostable packaging used at public events in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) is ending up in landfills because the region lacks the infrastructure to process the materials, according to reports from ABC News. While the ACT government mandates reusable, recyclable, or compostable alternatives for vendors, the absence of commercial composting facilities means these items often contaminate recycling streams or produce methane in landfills.
The ACT government was the first in Australia to ban single-use plastics at public events. This policy requires caterers and organizers to shift away from petroleum-based plastics, but waste advocates and small business owners say the move is “window dressing” without a functional recovery system.
Why are vendors frustrated with ACT composting mandates?
Vendors face higher overhead costs for compostable materials that they cannot actually compost. Debbie Clifford, who operates at the Capital Region Farmers Market, stated she feels “sold a lie” because the more expensive packaging goes straight to landfill.
Ms. Clifford noted that it is frustrating for community members who want to do the right thing but lack government support. She questioned the utility of paying a premium for environmental benefits that are not realized in practice.
How does the lack of infrastructure affect waste management?
Resource recovery expert Dan Watters explained that compostable materials placed in recycling bins can contaminate entire loads. Without dedicated facilities, waste is forced into landfill bins or incorrectly sorted into recycling.
According to Mr. Watters, organic material in landfills breaks down into methane. He suggested that the ACT could combine carbon-rich event waste with nitrogen-rich material from the Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) trial to create a scalable composting solution.
Sarah Power, manager of the Capital Region Farmers Market, described waste management as a “complicated puzzle.” The market previously partnered with SimplyCups, a Sydney-based firm, but the program is expensive and increases transport emissions by shipping waste interstate.
What is the government’s position on compostable packaging?
ACT City Services stated on Facebook that compostable packaging does not belong in recycling or green waste bins and should instead be placed in general waste. The agency noted that their sorting facility cannot process these items and many require specialized commercial conditions to break down.
An ACT government spokesperson added that some fiber-based packaging contains waterproof or non-stick coatings. These additives can prevent the material from being composted safely and can cause issues at processing facilities.
What happens next for ACT waste processing?
The resolution of this gap may depend on the completion of the proposed FOGO facility in Hume. While originally planned to be operational by 2023, the facility remains in the planning and design phase.
Until this facility is active, vendors may continue to rely on expensive private collection services or utilize landfill bins. Mr. Watters suggested a possible shift toward events using exclusively organic materials to simplify the process and achieve a true circular economy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where should compostable packaging be disposed of in the ACT?
According to ACT City Services, compostable packaging should be placed in the general waste bin, as it is not processed by recycling facilities.
Why isn’t all “compostable” packaging actually composted?
An ACT government spokesperson stated that some packaging contains additives for grease and water resistance that make it unsafe or impossible to compost in standard facilities.
What is the status of the Hume FOGO facility?
The facility was originally intended to be operational by 2023, but it is currently still in the planning and design phase.
Do you believe governments should provide the infrastructure before mandating the use of alternative materials?