Emerging issues at the chemicals-waste interface

The department is seeking an analysis of the chemicals-related challenges that are emerging internationally as countries move to increasingly circular economies. The focus should be on identifying chemicals management challenges that accompany recycling initiatives. For example, these may include: particular products that are difficult to recycle because they contain chemicals of concern; particular recycling practices that increase or avoid distribution of high concern chemicals into the environment (etc).

The department is also seeking advice on whether these global issues/trends are likely to become relevant domestically, based on a comparative analysis of the waste initiatives that are being (or will be-) implemented in Australia. This analysis will consider whether the current governing standards in Australia will adequately safeguard against potential emerging issues, and if not, what strategic interventions can be made. Strategic interventions may be regulatory or non-regulatory approaches. The role of government-industry partnerships in addressing these issues should be considered.