Tell the APC what you did

The APC received the nicest Christmas present last year – an overall 64.2 per cent recycling rate for post consumer packaging in 2013, which represents a 65 per cent jump from 2003's baseline of 39 per cent. Glass recycling increased 128 per cent from 2003, plastics 73 per cent and paper/cardboard 70 per cent.

“Through a reduction in materials used in packaging and an effective kerbside collection scheme, since 1999 we have reduced litter by 31 per cent in volume, 20 per cent by item, and increased recycling rates by more than 60 per cent since 2003,” reported Vanio Calgaro, general manager, APC. “These results show that Australians are doing the right thing and that recycling has become a way of life. We hope to build on this great work in working towards our target of a 70 per cent recycling rate by 2015.”

The APC was also able to report a 21 per cent increase since 2012 in the number of signatories reviewing all new packaging. Since 2005, the APC has contributed $33 million towards the funding of 165 projects with a total project value of over $140 million. APC projects have accounted for an estimated 32.4 per cent of the overall increase in recycling tonnes from 2005.

So the Covenant is working. And it's time to show that you've played your part. Reports are due in by 31 March. The online reporting template will be available to all signatories from the first week of February. Submit on time to be among the first to receive your feedback and scores.

To become a signatory and begin reporting, visit the APC website.

Reports should detail the progress made towards completing the actions outlined in approved action plans, and any other relevant activities undertaken that contribute to broader product stewardship and sustainability outcomes. Signatories who submit complete reports by this date will be the first to receive feedback and scores.

Why are the reports important? They are central to the APC being able to demonstrate the continuous improvement of our industry signatories towards APC goals.  This, in turn, is fundamental to showing the APC’s success in engaging the whole packaging supply chain to design more sustainable packaging, increase recycling rates and reduce packaging litter. Reporting via the online reporting template provides the APC with accurate and controlled data to report the progress of the Covenant to broader stakeholders including government and the community.

What's in it for you? High-performing signatories (those obtaining the highest score in their industry sector) are applauded by the APC in a formal awards program and their achievements are promoted by the APC through various media channels.

The APC provides the guides and resources needed to facilitate all annual report compilation. Further support in understanding what and how to report, is available by contacting Member Services. For queries regarding the online reporting template, contact Signatory Services.

And lastly, a reminder. 25 February is Business Clean Up Day, run by Clean Up Australia. Register here.