Kia ora koutou
We are excited and delighted to launch our major report – Rethinking Plastics in Aotearoa New Zealand – today. Our panel set out with a bold and broad scope to find ways to reduce the size of the plastic shadow that is cast by modern life. While we initially tried to reduce this scope, we ended up realising that plastic is everywhere and we must approach it from all angles simultaneously. Tackling the problem of plastic waste needs a systems change, a collection of adjustments – some large, some small – across all aspects of society.
To begin, we painted ourselves a vision of what the future could look like if we make these changes. We’ve included this vision in this reflection to set the stage for the report. The material is also available on our new #RethinkPlastic website. We hope you enjoy exploring the evidence‐base and ideas to inspire change.
Rethinking Plastics has received generous time and input from very many stakeholders. We set out to put together a report that included wisdom from within and way beyond the ivory tower, and are hugely grateful for the positive engagement which we have been privileged to receive from everyone we approached, or who came forward to support this kaupapa. Much of our work was about seeking out and showcasing best practice and most of our recommendations can actually be captured in a single phrase: ‘make best practice, standard practice’. We found this best practice and a host of new ideas across academia, research institutions, government, businesses, communities and individuals. Thank you for sharing your innovations and we hope you find it helpful to have them all in one place.
Ngā mihi nui
Rachel and Juliet
On behalf of the panel
