Beat Plastic Pollution this World Environment Day
Published on 05 June 2025
Today is World Environment Day and Byron Shire Council is urging the community to take action by joining the global movement to #BeatPlasticPollution.
“Our society’s throwaway behaviour is resulting in record levels of plastic pollution in our environment, and we need to wake up to it now,” Council’s Resource Recovery Strategy and Engagement Officer, Sarah Child said.
In 2025, the world is expected to consume 516 million tonnes of plastics. By 2060, annual global plastic consumption is forecast to reach over 1.2 billion tonnes.
“World Environment Day encourages us all to stop and think about how our actions, as individuals and as a community, impact the environment,” Ms Child said.
“When it comes to reducing plastic pollution, the first step is being aware of and responsible for your own behaviour. Whether it’s bringing a reusable water bottle or coffee cup, saying no to single-use plastics at the supermarket or starting a recycling club at your school or workplace - every action saves plastics from ending up in landfill!”
“The second step is participating in the creation of circular systems. By showcasing real-world solutions, the Beat Plastic Pollution campaign will encourage individuals, organizations, industries, and governments to adopt sustainable practices that can drive systemic change.”
“Byron Shire Council proudly supports several circular, reusable initiatives and as a result we’ve been able to avoid 160,925 single-use items going to landfill over the last 10 months. We know these systems work and we know there is hope – plastic pollution is a problem that can be fixed,” Ms Child said.
This year’s World Environment Day comes exactly two months before countries meet again to continue negotiating a global treaty to end plastic pollution.
To get involved, join the #BeatPlasticPollution movement on social media and via the World Environment Day website and start creating a healthier future for our planet today.
Pictured is Dee from North East Waste at the Bangalow Farmers Market taking part in Byron Shire's 'Move to Reuse' campaign.