MEDIA RELEASE

Retail NZ Welcomes PCE Report on Compostable Plastics And Bioplastics

Retail NZ has welcomed the results of an inquiry by the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment into compostable plastics and bioplastics.

"There is increasing customer demand for more sustainable forms of bags to carry shopping home in and retailers generally want to do the right thing by both customers and the environment," Greg Harford, Retail NZ's General Manager for Public Affairs, said today. "Across the sector, retailers are trialling a range of solutions, covering everything from expecting customers to bring their own, to providing jute, paper, compostable and biodegradable bags. However, this area is full of conflicting information, and there is a lack of scientific evidence about the impacts of different options.

"Retail NZ welcomes the information released today by the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment, and agree that the Government leadership is required on the whole issue of plastic bags, including compostable and biodegradable bags. There is a host of questions, both about science, but also about the availability of end of life recycling and disposal. Government is best placed to lead on these issues."

ends

© Scoop Media