All for naught: the plastic bag debate as a window into the abandonment of zero waste in New Zealand

Abstract

In 2002, New Zealand became one of the first countries in the world to adopt zero waste as a national policy. In doing so, it acquired a global reputation as a pioneer country in applying innovative approaches to the problem of waste. However, while other countries have since followed their lead, New Zealand itself has reversed course, culminating in 2010 with a formal abandonment of zero waste targets in favour of less ambitious goals. Analysis of the plastic bag debate in New Zealand provides a valuable window into the evolution of its national zero waste policy, from adoption to abandonment.