Enforceable Design Standards for Packaging

A recent inquiry into enforceable design standards for packaging underscored the need for a comprehensive approach to reduce waste and promote sustainability. Discussions centred on regulatory reform, extended producer responsibility, and the importance of addressing behavioural change to drive industry-wide change. The inquiry, led by Sen Peter Whish-Wilson, highlighted the need for enforceable design standards to reduce packaging waste and promote sustainable practices. Cameron Hutchison from the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, explained that achieving these standards would involve mandating better design standards, recycled content targets, and restricting chemicals of concern. The inquiry also explored the complexities of driving behavioural change, with Heinz Schandl from the CSIRO stressing the importance of understanding the determinants of behaviour and the role of socio-technical systems in shaping cultural behaviours. Sen Karen Grogan noted the significance of consumer choice, questioning how to influence people's choices and whether regulations, standards, or process adjustments are more effective. Overall, the inquiry suggests that enforceable design standards for packaging could play a crucial role in reducing waste and promoting sustainability, with a comprehensive approach needed to drive industry-wide change.