Putting plastic waste to good use: building a sustainable future

Putting plastic waste to good use: building a sustainable future

RMIT's Capitol Theatre became a hub of innovative thinking and practical solutions as leading voices in sustainability, social change and science gathered to discuss the pressing issue of plastic waste.

The free public event, held on Monday, was hosted by RMIT’s Enabling Impact Platforms, the Solving Plastic Waste CRC and CSIRO, Australia's national science agency. 

 Speakers included:

The panel shared their insights and actionable tips for reducing plastic waste.

The paradox of plastic

Plastic waste is a complex issue that demands a holistic approach. While plastic is indispensable in many aspects of modern life, its mismanagement poses significant environmental challenges.

Adam Spencer highlighted the paradox of plastic, saying, “While it plays a crucial role in preserving food, providing safe drinking water and enabling medical advancements, plastic waste is a significant environmental issue.”

24 July 2024

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Host Adam Spencer delivering opening remarks on stageAdam Spencer, comedian and author, hosted the event.

Too much plastic

Rebecca Prince-Ruiz, founder of Plastic Free July, said we are simply consuming too much. 

“The global footprint estimate is that we're using the resources of 1.7 planet Earths every year. If everyone lived like the average Australian, we'd need 4.5 planet Earths," Prince-Ruiz said.

The path to change

Professor Lisa Given, Director of RMIT’s Social Change Enabling Impact Platform, said changing behaviour is essential in combating plastic waste.

"Educating oneself and others about proper recycling practices is essential,” she said.

Advancements in recycling technologies are making it easier for consumers to educate themselves and dispose of plastic waste correctly. The Recycle Mate app, for instance, helps users navigate the complexities of recycling.

"Recycle Mate is a great initiative because it maps all the recycling systems across Australia," explained Lara Barclay from Adaptation Environmental Support. 

"It's supported by all levels of government and helps people find the nearest recycling options."

Initiatives like Plastic Free July have also proven effective in encouraging individuals to make small, yet impactful changes.

“Plastic Free July started with just 40 people in 2011 and has grown to 2.7 million Australians participating last year," shared Prince-Ruiz. 

"It's about giving it a try, making small choices, and embedding new behaviours into our lives."

Different types of plastic waste, including discarded chip packet, plastic wrap, pens and a toothbrushEducating consumers about how to correctly dispose of plastic waste is essential.

Rethinking systems

Dr Deborah Lau, who leads CSIRO’s Ending Plastic Waste research, introduced the concept of the plastic waste hierarchy. 

"It's almost an engineering systems approach to a systems problem," she explained. 

Lau emphasised that the hierarchy ranks different strategies based on their effectiveness and environmental impact, with avoiding plastics altogether having the greatest impact on reducing environmental damage. 

Professor Xavier Mulet, Director of RMIT’s Advanced Materials, Manufacturing and Fabrication Enabling Impact Platform, said that while individual actions are important, systemic changes are necessary to address the root causes of plastic waste. 

“This includes rethinking product design, improving recycling infrastructure and holding manufacturers accountable,” he said.

Lau agreed that we can't just recycle our way out of this problem.

"We need to reduce production and consumption, and take responsibility for plastic waste," she said.

Professor Given said consumers have a powerful voice, adding, “By choosing products that are sustainably packaged and supporting companies that prioritise sustainability, we can drive change in the market."

Panel members seated on stage, engaged in conversationThe panel agreed that systemic changes are needed to address the root causes of plastic waste.

Every positive step helps – no matter the size

In the fight against plastic waste, every small step counts.

Whether it's using a reusable coffee cup, supporting policies that reduce plastic production, or leveraging technology to improve recycling, we all have a role to play. 

As Prince-Ruiz aptly put it, "We've got to turn off the tap and tackle it at the source." 

The journey towards a plastic-free future is challenging, but with collective effort and innovative solutions, it is achievable.

How you can help

Tips on how you can reduce your plastic waste: 

  • Avoid single-use plastics: Opt for reusable items such as water bottles, coffee cups and shopping bags.
  • Participate in initiatives: Join movements like Plastic Free July to challenge yourself and raise awareness about plastic waste. 
  • Educate yourself and others: Use resources like the Recycle Mate app to understand local recycling rules and ensure you are disposing of plastic waste correctly. 
  • Support sustainable products: Choose products made from recycled or biodegradable materials and support companies that prioritise sustainable practices. 
  • Advocate for change: Get involved in efforts to spread the word about plastic waste through community and government initiatives, and support organisations working towards a sustainable future. 
  • Embrace innovations: Stay informed about new technologies and practices in plastic waste management. Support businesses and initiatives that are leading the way in recycling and sustainable practices. 
  • Reduce overall consumption: Consider your overall consumption habits. Aim to reduce waste by buying only what you need, choosing quality over quantity, and repairing items instead of replacing them.

RMIT’s Enabling Impact Platforms are the University’s unique mechanism in bringing together researchers and industry experts to rapidly respond to large-scale, complex issues in society. Find out more.

 

Story: Andrea Davies

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24 July 2024

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