Cr Kate Wilson, with support from Cr Marie Laufiso, this week won backing from other Dunedin city councillors to submit a remit on non-biodegradable plastics and product stewardship to Local Government New Zealand.
The remit sought to have LGNZ ask the Government to set clear requirements for a reduction in non-biodegradable plastic disposables and packaging, which would become "increasingly stringent".
LGNZ would also ask the Government to develop a clear pathway and framework for "effective" product stewardship to reduce waste.
For a remit to become LGNZ policy, it had to meet requirements, including being an issue of significance for the entire local government sector, and have the backing of at least five councils.
Cr Wilson said she was concerned by a lack of action on the issue so far by the new government, and wanted to see it given a "higher priority". The country faced "huge long-term consequences" if it failed to deal with old batteries, televisions, polystyrene and other problem products, she said.
The initiative met with vocal support at this week's full DCC meeting from Crs Lee Vandervis, Aaron Hawkins and Jim O'Malley.
Tuesday's vote meant the council would now seek backing from other councils before submitting the remit for consideration by May 21.
