“We’re after your suggestions on how we can reduce e-waste such as old solar panels, televisions, fridges, computers and air conditioners,” said Chris Whiting MP.

The Annastacia Palaszczuk Government has released a draft e-Products Action Plan, targeting electronic waste, including solar panels and batteries.

“Currently Australia generates about half a billion tonnes a year and we’re recovering only about 18% of the material value of all this waste,” said Chris Whiting MP.

“One of the biggest issues is how do we stop dumping of old solar panels: I think we can do much better than sending them to landfill.

“The Annastacia Palaszczuk Government is aiming to have a circular economy where we create less e-waste.

“We want to see 80% of e-waste collected and 90% of that material recovered.

“We have a draft Action Plan and we’re encouraging people to have their say.

“Part of the draft plan is a possible ban on dumping solar panels at Queensland landfills within 10 years.

“The plan also details just how much e-waste we generate and that is a real eye-opener.

“We’re also investing $250,000 to kick off an industry-led solar stewardship scheme for solar panels.

“We need to shift our mindset towards more reuse and repair as well as recycling,” said Chris Whiting MP.

To have your say on the plan, go to https://www.qld.gov.au/environment/management/waste/recovery/reduction/draft-e-products-action-plan.