The current lack of information is frustrating consumers' desires to do the right thing and sheltering producers from the need to clean up their act. Most shoppers are not able to discriminate between products that required large amounts of water or massive greenhouse gas emissions and those that are better for the environment.
There is little or no pressure on producers to minimise their emissions or water usage.
Labelling laws would start the process of pushing producers to clean up their act.
Combined with a carbon pricing regime to send a better price signal and regulations to drive up efficiency of water and energy use, NSW consumers could reduce the embodied water and greenhouse gases in their shopping trolleys and daily lives.
"The Iemma government needs to get tough with industry and retailers. It needs to show leadership with other states and the Commonwealth and set the pace on helping households reduce their impact on the planet," Dr Kaye said.
