The Program
The Program - Product Stewardship
| ‘At the time of its 2002 launch, we said that this Product Stewardship Commitment was a dynamic program which would evolve over time.’ |
| George Macovaz, Chairman, Technical Steering Group, 2005. The Product Stewardship Program (PSP) is dynamic. Now an ongoing program, it can demonstrate many achievements which have improved the health and environmental impacts of vinyl products. Stakeholder feedback, Signatory reporting and expert scientific and technical research are just some of the ways the PSP achieves progress on its Commitments. A Vinyl Council of Australia initiative, supported by the Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts, Australians welcome this innovative, whole-of-life program to improve the sustainability of beneficial PVC products. |
| Statement from the Minister for the Environment and Heritage (2002) |
| This Product Stewardship Commitment represents a significant step forward by the Australian PVC industry. Through this Commitment, the industry is moving beyond statutory compliance and onto the path of continual environmental improvement. This is to be applauded. The Commitment provides the industry with a powerful tool for reducing the impact of its activities on the environment and allowing it to more effectively contribute to a sustainable society. Despite having a relatively sound environmental profile, I understand the concerns that industry has about its potential and perceived environmental and health impacts. This Commitment comes about as a result of a critical examination by the Vinyl Council of Australia of the industry’s activities. This Commitment is a starting point. It does not yet provide solutions to all issues. However, by tackling the main issues as we understand them at this time, and by committing to monitor and address emerging issues, this Commitment marks a significant and valuable step on the path to sustainability. The commitment to phase out cadmium additives is significant as is the commitment to public transparency. It allows the industry to address new issues as they arise and further develop its commitment to improved environmental performance. The PVC industry makes a major contribution to the Australian economy. It provides up to 5,000 jobs and has annual sales revenue of $800 million. The range of applications of PVC products is considerable, and their utility is taken for granted. This Commitment will enable the Australian community to continue to benefit from PVC products manufactured, stored and recycled in a healthier fashion. Few industries enjoy the advantage of being naturally environmentally friendly, and I congratulate the PVC industry for the tough decisions it has taken voluntarily as it strives toward more responsible corporate citizenship. I trust the Commitment made by your industry will provide impetus for others to similarly address their impacts on the environment. Dr. David Kemp, Minister for Environment and Heritage, 2002. |
