What It Means for Growers

In an effort to address the environmental impact of plastic packaging, New Zealand is embarking on a project to design a Plastic Packaging Product Stewardship Scheme (PPPS), which aligns with the Waste Minimisation Act 2008. Announced in September 2022 by the Minister for the Environment, the project aims to create a more sustainable and circular economy.

This model will encompass all types of plastic packaging used for consumer goods, except for beverage containers, and will also include liquid paperboard and compostable plastics.

All packaging used for consumer goods at retail or wholesale level (excluding beverage containers) made of plastic resin codes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7, singly or in combination with one or more of these plastics or any non-plastic material, and not refilled by the producer for retail sale or able to be refilled by the consumer at a retail establishment.

The PPPS is designed to ensure that producers of plastic packaging bear the responsibility for the lifecycle of their products, including the costs associated with recycling. This approach is not only expected to reduce the environmental impact of plastic waste but also aims to encourage innovation in packaging design to enhance recyclability.

To date, several options have been explored to improve plastic packaging collection and recycling infrastructure. The three primary infrastructure options are:

1. System unchanged but producer pays:

This option involves utilising existing collection systems and imposing differential levies on producers based on the sustainability of their packaging choices.

2. Increase volume through existing channels:

This focuses on increasing public awareness and education about recycling practices, alongside increasing the availability of collection points for plastic waste.

3. System change to full source separation:

The most ambitious option, this involves overhauling the current collection system to separately handle different types of plastics, leading to improved sorting and more efficient recycling.

 For growers, the PPPS initiative presents both challenges and opportunities. The scheme's focus on sustainable packaging means more consideration will need to be given to packaging choices. The transition may involve additional costs initially, especially if changes to packaging materials or practices are required to meet new standards.

While final details are still pending, a fee structure is being considered as an option to help tackle packaging waste. This could include a membership fee for producers using a low volume of packaging, a modest fee for producers using packaging that is kerbside- collectable, and a larger fee per tonne for those producing high volumes of hard-to-recycle packaging. It is also important to note that if your brand is on the packaging, you will be responsible for the fees – even if you are not the actual producer.

It is hoped that the shift towards sustainable packaging will open up new avenues for innovation and differentiation in the market. As the scheme matures, it is expected to create a better and more efficient recycling system, potentially lowering costs in the long term, while also reducing plastic waste.

As the country moves forward with the PPPS, the involvement of all stakeholders, including growers, is crucial. Staying informed and engaged in this process will help growers navigate the imminent changes.

Visit the PPPS website for more information, including how to provide feedback:

www.ppps.org.nz.