The NSW Parliament has passed the Environment Legislation Amendment (Plastic Reduction and Container Recycling) Bill 2026, advancing the NSW Government's Plastics Plan 2.0 and its objectives of reducing plastic pollution, improving recycling and encouraging more sustainable use of plastics.
The legislation supports further restrictions on selected single-use plastic products, improved packaging recyclability and measures to reduce microplastic pollution. Implementation will be phased, with further regulations and consultation expected.
Of particular interest to the PVC industry is the Government's proposed approach to chemicals of concern in plastics. The Plastics Plan 2.0 proposes identifying and progressively restricting certain chemicals, initially focusing on food and beverage packaging, with specific reference to phthalates and bisphenols.
While VCA supports the responsible management of chemicals, it is essential that any proposed restrictions distinguish between chemical hazard and actual risk, taking account of exposure, intended application and established scientific evidence.
Phthalates are a diverse family of chemicals with differing toxicological profiles. Some are used as plasticisers in flexible PVC, while others have already been replaced or restricted in particular applications. Broad, undifferentiated restrictions could have unintended consequences for safe and essential PVC products.
VCA will seek to ensure that future NSW regulatory proposals recognise existing national chemical assessment and management frameworks, including AICIS and IChEMS, and avoid unnecessary duplication or inconsistent requirements between jurisdictions.
VCA will monitor the development of implementing regulations and consultation opportunities to ensure the PVC industry's interests are appropriately represented.