Last November we reported on the waste export regulations which took effect at that time for used tyres. In that article it was noted that Australia would introduce rules for the export of paper and cardboard commencing on 01 July 2024 and restrict the export of unprocessed single polymer waste plastic from 01 July 2022 – which the government enforces this week.
As we move into July, the Australian Border Force (ABF) has issued Australian Customs Notice No. 2022/27, titled Commencement of phase 2 of the Recycling and Waste Reduction (Export–Waste Plastics) Rules 2021.
It states, “With effect from 01 July 2022, Australia will further restrict exports of waste plastic under the Recycling and Waste Reduction Act 2020 and the Recycling and Export-Waste Plastics Reduction Rules 2021.”
Phase two of the Plastic Rules will only allow the export of waste plastics that have been sorted into a single resin or polymer type and capable of re-manufacture without further processing; or is processed with other materials into processed engineered fuel. Exporters will not be issued a waste export licence to export unprocessed, baled waste plastic as they will not meet the requirements of the Plastics Rules from 01 July 2022.
Exporters will be required to hold a waste export licence for plastic and declare each export consignment of waste plastic to the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DAWE).
The intent of the measure is to prevent the export of unprocessed waste plastic, which is likely to have a negative impact on human health and the environment in the receiving country. It will also maximise the ability of the Australian waste and recycling sector to collect, recover, recycle, reuse and convert waste plastic into new products.
DAWE administers licences to export waste plastic, which can be valid for up to three years. Waste export licences are subject to conditions. Exporters need to meet the requirements of the Act and the Plastic Rules in order for the Minister for the Environment and Water to consider granting a waste export licence.
Australia’s waste export ban is world-leading, with ours being the only country to have banned the export of its unprocessed waste.
DAWE posts guidelines for the export of waste products on their website.
For professional advice about all your export trade and shipping needs, whether for waste products or general cargo, please contact us here at Colless Young. As licensed Customs Brokers and International Freight Forwarders, we handle all your transport needs, by airfreight and sea cargo, both import and export. We are based in Brisbane and offer a complete range of logistics services through all Australian ports and airports.
