Growing waste, biodiversity and climate change challenges in NSW environment report
New data from the State of the Environment 2024 report reveals that waste generation in NSW is rising faster than population growth, exacerbating the looming landfill crisis.
With Greater Sydney’s landfill capacity projected to run out by 2030, the findings reinforce the urgency to reduce waste and boost recycling.
NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) CEO Tony Chappel said the report paints a clear picture of the state’s environmental trajectory.
“NSW is making significant strides in reducing litter and expanding renewable energy – now powering a third of the state – driven by government policies, investment, innovation and community action,” Mr Chappel said.
“While these achievements should be recognised, there is still more to do, particularly to address waste management, biodiversity loss and climate change.
“The growing volume of waste sent to landfill is a serious concern. Each person in NSW generated an average of 2.7 tonnes of waste in 2022–23, up from 2.4 tonnes in 2015–16. That’s the equivalent of nearly three small cars per person.
“Sadly, the number of threatened species continues to rise, driven by habitat loss and climate change.”
The EPA produces the report every three years, drawing on the latest research from 11 NSW Government agencies and peer-reviewed studies. Covering 20 environmental topics, it is also independently reviewed for transparency.
The 2024 report promotes Aboriginal perspectives on environmental custodianship, increasing public understanding of its value.
The EPA worked closely with the Aboriginal Peoples Knowledge Group (APKG) on this report, and it includes their stories, knowledges and perspectives on how we can work together to care for Country.
Mr Chappel said the data highlights why evidence-based decisions are crucial in shaping policies and programs.
“This snapshot is a valuable tool for the NSW Government, industry and community,” he explained.
“It underscores our efforts to tackle these challenges head-on, through lasting collective action and targeted solutions.
“Achieving Net Zero, reversing biodiversity decline, and solving the landfill crisis require innovation and collaboration. We’re committed to working together to take the necessary actions to continue to safeguard our environment for generations to come.”
Key findings from the 2024 report include:
Biodiversity – NSW now has 1,018 threatened species, an increase of 36 since 2020. Habitats have lost 71% of their ability to support native plants and animals since industrialisation. Coastal fish populations are recovering, with 57% of stocks now sustainable.
Climate change & extreme weather – Net greenhouse gas emissions have fallen 27% since 2005, but more action is needed to meet the 50% reduction target by 2030. More hot days over 35°C are projected to rise, as well as severe fire weather and extreme rainfall. Air quality meets national standards most of the time.
Litter & plastic pollution – Litter has fallen 51% since 2021–22, indicating the state is on track to meet the 2030 target of a 60% reduction. Plastic litter has dropped 55% from 2021–22 to 2022–23, exceeding the 2025 target of a 30% reduction.
Renewable energy – 34% of NSW’s electricity was sourced from renewable energy in 2022–23, up from 19% in 2020.
Transport emissions – NSW’s largest greenhouse gas source by 2030 will be transport emissions. Although increased uptake of electric vehicles can help reduce emissions, these gains may be offset by high SUV and light commercial vehicle sales.
Waste & landfill – Waste generation has outpaced population growth, rising from 18.7 million tonnes in 2015–16 to 22.4 million tonnes in 2022–23.
To read the full report released today, visit our interactive website: https://soe.epa.nsw.gov.au/
To access images from the report, visit: http://bit.ly/3T7CuSL