New Zealand Announces 62% Glass Recycling Rate
The Glass Packaging Forum of New Zealand announced that New Zealanders recycle more than three out of every five glass containers. Their glass recovery rate increased to 62 percent, up from 53 percent the year prior. The increase in recycling translates into an additional 28,955 tons of glass recovered annually.
These increases exceed the goals of a five year voluntary agreement within New Zealand’s glass industry, which initially aimed for a 55 percent recycling rate.
New Zealand’s glass recovery rate moves it ahead of Europe’s current goal to reach a 60 percent recycling rate by the end of 2008 and Australia’s goal of a 60 percent rate by 2010.
Noting the importance of mobile glass crushers, increases in the export market price of glass cullet and educational programs in expediting this increase, John Webber, general manager of the Glass Packaging Forum, said, “This recycling achievement clearly demonstrates that when industry commits to a voluntary product stewardship program, it takes its responsibilities very seriously and when supported by other parties, significant gains can be made.”
Webber also added that, “Voluntary schemes are winners because industry is part of the solution rather than being sent a demand to pay additional taxes and compliance costs.”
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