News
Comprehensive coverage on the latest global policies and market trends related to sustainable development.
POLICY/REGULATION
Philippines to Amend DENR Administrative Order on Revised Procedures and Standards for the Management of Hazardous Waste
In early October, the Environmental Management Bureau of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (EMB-DENR) of the Philippines announced a public consultation on proposed amendments to DENR Administrative Order (DAO) 2013-22, the Revised Procedures and Standards for the Management of Hazardous Waste. Stakeholders are encouraged to submit their position papers via email to dao201322.amendment@gmail.com by October 18, 2024.
Oct 10, 2024
POLICY/REGULATION
Sep 20, 2024
POLICY/REGULATION
Indonesia Specifies Qualifications for B3 Waste Management Personnel
On August 30, 2024, the Indonesian Ministry of Environment and Forestry (KLHK) released and enacted Regulation No. 11 of 2024, concerning the implementation of the Indonesian National Qualification Framework (KKNI) in Hazardous and Toxic Waste Management.
Sep 14, 2024
POLICY/REGULATION
Most ‘Compostable’ Bioplastics are Anything But, Says New Report
A new report from Beyond Plastics, an NGO, claims that very little of the bioplastics labeled as compostable can be composted by consumers.
“Compostable” bioplastics can only be broken down in commercial compost facilities, but many of these won’t take compostable foodware and packaging because of concerns about microplastic and chemical contamination.
With no U.S. federal standards, bioplastic certifications are voluntary, and mostly owned and influenced by chemical companies and bioplastic manufacturers, the report says. Standards are also weak globally.
The report notes that bioplastics often take longer to break down than industry claims, and when they do degrade, they leave toxic micro- and nanoplastics in compost that can enter the food chain, potentially causing health problems for people and animals. The plastics industry disputes these claims.
Sep 14, 2024
POLICY/REGULATION
Taiwan Drafts Standards for PFAS in Drinking Water
On August 21, 2024, Taiwan's Ministry of Environment (MOENV) introduced a series of draft amendments to the Drinking Water Quality Standards, which incorporates new standards for PFAS in drinking water. The draft is open for comments until October 21, 2024.
Aug 27, 2024
POLICY/REGULATION
APCO Unveils the 2030 Strategic Plan to Revolutionize the Australian Packaging Industry
On August 19, 2024, the Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO) unveiled the APCO 2030 Strategic Plan, aligning with its responsibilities to manage the Australian Packaging Covenant (the Covenant). This strategy introduces an innovative membership fee model, aiming to support the increased recycling activities and foster a sustainable packaging future.
Aug 23, 2024
POLICY/REGULATION
Philippines' EPR Law Targets 40% Plastic Waste Reduction by the End of 2024
On August 6, 2024, the Philippine Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) published a notification, emphasizing the critical importance of enterprises registering their Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) programs. This initiative is central to achieving the country's ambitious goal of reducing plastic waste by 40% by the end of 2024. The EPR programs focus on waste reduction, recovery, and diversion, aligning with the EPR Act, which happened to celebrate its second anniversary on August 12, 2024.
Aug 23, 2024