We continue to oppose proposed Moss Vale Plastics Recycling Facility
The Greens reiterate our previously stated opposition to the Moss Vale Plastics Recycling Facility proposed by RePoly (formerly Plasrefine).
In our submission to the Independent Planning Commission (IPC) in November 2024, we highlighted the unacceptable impact of the proposal on waterways, fire and emergency management issues, as well as land use conflict and opposition from local residents and traditional owners.
It is extremely disappointing that the proponent is appealing the IPC decision rather than working with Wingecarribee Shire Council and the local community to develop a recycling facility in keeping with the Southern Highlands Innovation Park Master Plan.
The NSW Waste and Sustainable Materials Strategy Stage 1 2021-2027 includes a target to achieve an average 80% recovery rate of resources from all waste streams by 2030, and to reduce plastic litter items by 30% by 2025. In 2022–23, NSW generated approximately 891,000 tonnes of plastic waste, almost 110 kilograms per capita, but only 14% of that was recycled. Southern Highlands communities have expressed that they want to be part of the solution to this problem.
However, this particular proposal is not the right solution. The proposed site is not suitable for a recycling facility of this nature and of this scale due to its location in a riparian zone and in proximity to residential areas, and significant concerns relating to environmental risk and fire safety have not been adequately addressed. It is notable that Wingecarribee Shire Council continues to oppose this proposal due to the "irreconcilable matter of unsuitable location.”
We recognise the strong community interest in this matter, with an estimated 200 community members in attendance at the recent conciliation hearing.
We have previously noted that a number of objectors have offered their support to the proponent and to the government in identifying a more suitable site for this or any other proposals for recycling facilities. Southern Highlands communities, and the Greens, support the development of the infrastructure needed to urgently transition NSW toward a circular economy, and look forward to working collaboratively with the government to do so.