How much plastic waste is generated in Australia by average households in 2021?

In Australia, the average household produces around 500 kilograms of plastic waste each year. This plastic waste usually ends up in landfill, where it can take hundreds or even thousands of years to break down. And as the population continues to grow, so does the amount of plastic waste being produced.

Even when recycled, plastic can only be downcycled into lower-quality materials that are not suitable for long-term use. As a result, it is estimated that less than 10% of all the plastic ever produced has been recycled. Given the environmental impact of this waste, it is clear that we need to find ways to reduce our reliance on plastic. One way to do this is to choose reusable alternatives where possible, such as metal straws, reusable coffee cups and cloth shopping bags. By making small changes in our everyday lives, we can help to make a big difference for the environment.