The LNP has committed to a policy that would address one of Queensland’s major environmental issues – cans and bottles littering our land and waterways and creating land fill issues.
On a visit to the Impact Material Recovery Facility in Bundaberg today, Shadow Environment Minister Dr Christian Rowan said the LNP would introduce a container deposit scheme (CDS) that would see Queensland consumers, businesses and charities refunded 10 cents for aluminium, glass and plastic drink containers returned for recycling.
“The LNP’s plan would deliver a great win for the environment, reduce visual pollution and could create hundreds of jobs in Queensland’s recycling sector,” Dr Rowan said.
“We’re committed to grassroots environmental initiatives and this scheme would bring Queensland in line with other states across Australia.
“This scheme could also be a major win for community groups across the Wide Bay and Burnett who could access $25 million in deposits and handling fees, providing a valuable income source to fund their activities.
“Even better is that a Qld CDS scheme is expected to result in a 60% fall in container litter and could create hundreds of new jobs in recycling.”
Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett said the LNP has left Labor in the shade with its solid commitment to a CDS.
“Our policy has been way out in front of Labor on this important issue,” Mr Bennett said.
“After two years of dragging the chain including a 12-month “feasibility investigation”, the best Labor could do last week was release a discussion paper about possible implementation “options”.
“At a local level I’m really excited about the money-making opportunity our CDS offers local charities, sporting clubs and schools – not to mention the benefits of the scheme in reducing pollution of our region’s precious natural environment.”