NSW Environment Minister Bob Debus has warned industry it could face tough new regulations if more responsibility isn't taken for the environmental impact of products like tyres, batteries, plastic bags and computers.
Minister Debus said Government has identified 16 'wastes of concern' that require industry's urgent attention.
"The days of manufacturers washing their hands of products once they leave the shop is coming to an end," Mr Debus said.
"It's no longer good enough for industry to make and sell goods with little thought to conserving precious resources or to recovering materials once the product reaches its end of life.
"Industry is now on notice - take responsibility for your product from the cradle to the grave or face tough action."
Mr Debus said the concept, known as "Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)", is crucial to protecting the environment in NSW.
He said the Department of Environment and Conservation released a consultation paper last year seeking feedback on target wastes.
Industry has been asked to address problem areas by working with Government, green groups and consumers.
"A priority statement available to industry identifies a range of problem wastes and deadlines," Mr Debus said.
"Industry now has 12 months to progress EPR schemes to manage used televisions, computers, tyres, NiCad batteries and plastic bags.
"These five products pose significant environmental problems when disposed of incorrectly and there are no schemes in place to reduce their impacts at present," he said.
An expert reference group will evaluate the effectiveness of the existing EPR schemes for nominated wastes within 12 months.
"If industry can't meet our requirements within deadlines, it may find itself mandated to meet our expectations," Mr Debus said.
Mr Debus said the priority statement to be delivered to industry also flags cigarette litter, treated timber, office paper, electrical products (other than TVs and computers), old vehicle parts, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and household hazardous and chemical wastes for further attention.
The EPR Priority Statement is available at (http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/index.htm) or from Pollution Line on 131-555. The deadline for final comments is May 28, 2004.