• Plastics and Circular Economy 2024 Australian Update
    Plastics and Circular Economy 2024 Australian Update
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The SPE_ANZ conference, 2024 Plastics and Circular Economy Australian Update will delve into the future of plastics and their role in transitioning to a circular economy. Scheduled for 21-22 October, this online event will bring together over 200 decision-makers and industry representatives to discuss the latest innovations and policies shaping sustainable practices in Australia.

Packaging will be a key focus, with practical solutions for reducing plastic waste taking centre stage.

Barry Cosier, the director of sustainability at the Australian Food and Grocery Council (AFGC), will present "Soft Plastics: What’s Next?" on 21 October at 2:40 pm. With extensive experience in both the resource recovery and food and grocery sectors, Cosier is currently leading the development of a product stewardship scheme for soft plastics. His session will explore the future of soft plastics recycling and product stewardship, a critical issue for Australia’s packaging industry.

Cosier brings over 30 years of experience, having worked in multinational grocery companies, the resource recovery industry, and as a member of the Federal Department of Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water Resource Recovery Reference Groups. His leadership in developing strategies for the recycling of soft plastics highlights the packaging sector’s ongoing efforts to reduce plastic waste.

Chris De Armitt, president of Phantom Plastics, will present "Why Facts Matter for Plastic, the Environment, and our Future" on 22 October at 9:05 am. De Armitt, widely regarded as a top global expert on plastic materials, will focus on the environmental impacts of plastics, debunking misconceptions with scientific evidence. He is the author of The Plastics Paradox, which provides a comprehensive overview of plastics’ effects on the environment, including waste, litter, and microplastics.

De Armitt’s work includes collaborations with major companies such as Apple, Disney, and P&G, showcasing his deep expertise and problem-solving skills in the industry. His session will provide critical insights into the facts surrounding plastic use and its environmental implications.

The event will serve as a platform for key voices in the plastics and sustainability sectors, highlighting the challenges and opportunities in Australia’s transition towards a circular economy.

To register, click here.

Food & Drink Business

The Senate Economics Committee has rejected the Food Donations Bill that proposed a tax offset for companies donating excess food to food relief agencies rather than dumping it. While the bill had the potential to deliver the equivalent of 100 million meals to food relief organisations, the committee said it had “serious concerns” including the bill’s “generous” tax concessions. Food relief agencies and social welfare organisations have questioned the committee’s decision to reject the bill outright rather than make recommendations for amendments.  

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Mondelēz International has appointed Toby Smith as President Japan, Australia and New Zealand, with the incumbent, Darren O’Brien, appointed Global Chief Corporate and Government Affairs officer.