Whether through ease, lack of thought or some fairly entrenched habits, we have adopted a widespread “throw away” culture almost without realising. 

Worse, trying to pry us away from these habits whether to save the planet, our own households or just save money, are increasingly difficult. 

This reluctance to change has seen the encroachment of added laws and regulations keeping pace (or attempting to) with the inflated sense of entitlement that scorns collective responsibility. 

But whether it is plastic shopping bags or simple coffee cups, it is this peripheral, seemingly minor waste which can do much of the damage. 

They have also been the subject of some concerted and sustained campaigns to change our thinking or at least get us thinking. 

Perhaps it is because it is these things which we consider so peripheral to our lives we barely give them a thought. 

Ethical buying has long been an increasingly powerful marketing motivation. In short, it asks us to ask ourselves a question beyond price: why do we consume.

Recognising there is a long way to go in this battle with our own past thinking, there is also the positive force which is more about adapting our future. 

Despite some increasing reluctance of an affluent Australia to do without, we also have a wonderful ability to adapt and innovate. 

It is worthwhile keeping an eye on the small scale enterprises leading the charge in this area and what a difference they can make.

However, bringing about real change is an even more exciting concept.

For any meaningful change to be achieved, initiatives must strike the right balance between being convenient and cost-effective.

Some states have introduced “cash for cans” schemes in a bid to encourage recycling.

But how many people are willing to go to the hassle of collecting, storing and then depositing their empties for just 10c a pop?

We must do more and like a creative approach to energy generation, the future is ours if we are willing to change.