This statement is in two parts. Part one provides the context for the development of the National Waste Policy and summarises the roles and responsibilities of governments. It highlights progress in relation to waste management and resource recovery and presents the drivers for change.

The aim of this strategy is to equip all Australians with the knowledge and skills required to live sustainably. The plan has been prepared in conjunction with the National Council on Education for Sustainability by the Australian Government Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts.

A marginal saving in health costs in the four major Australian cities would arise from widespread use of E5 and E10 ethanol blends, according to this study. But this saving will be eroded over time as new vehicles, with improved emission control technology, enter the Australian fleet.