The Australian Electoral Commission reported that materials like pencils, ballot boxes, and vests used in elections are largely reused or recycled. However, experts believe Australia could improve its election sustainability practices. Professor Lisa Given highlighted issues with single-use plastics used in political advertising, referencing India's progress in banning such materials. The AEC is attempting to become more sustainable by using recyclable ballot boxes. Given calls for an overall energy and waste reduction strategy in elections, noting that transitioning to digital systems could increase energy consumption.
The AEC reported that voting booths, tamper tape, vests, and pencils are stored for reuse, whereas other materials like ballot boxes may be recycled or donated.
Lisa Given criticized Australia's reliance on single-use plastics for elections, contrasting it with India, which has banned such materials in its electoral processes.
Given advocates for a comprehensive waste reduction strategy for elections, highlighting the environmental impact of traditional voting materials compared to digital alternatives.
The shift to recyclable brown cardboard ballot boxes by the AEC represents an important step towards more sustainable elections, encouraging political parties to adopt similar practices.
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