Zero Waste: EPR in New Zealand?

Packaging Accord

New Zealand’s Packaged Goods Accord is being updated from the first voluntary Accord signed in 1996. The draft version (of July 2003) is available from www.packaging.org.nz)

The objective is to improve the sustainability of packaging used in New Zealand through:

• improved partnerships, policies and processes
• brand owners and retailers accepting the primary responsibility for product stewardship over the full packaging life cycle
• improved material and energy efficiency in the production, use and recovery of packaging materials
• supply chain initiatives to foster markets for sustainably produced packaged goods, including greater utilisation of recovered packaging materials.

Signatories include:

• The Packaging Council of New Zealand
• The Minister for the Environment

Endorsing parties are:

• Local Government New Zealand
• Recycling Operators of New Zealand

The proposed signing date is June 22 2004