The Department of Environment and Science has warned there is just over a month to go before a ban of single-use plastics comes into effect (1 September).
Minister for the Environment, Meaghan Scanlon said the Department was teaming up with Australia’s peak retail body, the National Retail Association (NRA) as well as the Boomerang Alliance for a travelling roadshow.
“The roadshow will ensure businesses and community groups are ready for the shift to more sustainable products,” Ms Scanlon said.
“Half of all plastic produced is designed to be used only once, ending up in landfill and harming our environment.”
She said there had already been benefits from the earlier ban on lightweight single-use plastic shopping bags, with surveys showing a 70 per cent reduction in all plastic bag litter.
The extension of that ban on 1 September includes single-use plastic items such as straws, stirrers, cutlery, plates and unenclosed bowls, as well as polystyrene cups and takeaway containers.
“The ban prevents plastic items being supplied in Queensland regardless of whether they are free with your meal or sold in packets in party supply stores,” Ms Scanlon said.
“There will be exemptions for particular organisations, to ensure that Queenslanders with disability or healthcare needs can continue to access necessary items.”
Chief Executive Officer of the National Retail Association, Dominique Lamb said many retailers were already transitioning to comply with the ban.
“We encourage consumers to support them by bringing reusables, thinking about whether you need straws or cutlery, or just understanding that tableware items we offer will be a little different now,” Ms Lamb said.
More information on the roadshow can be accessed at this PS News link and on items to be banned at this link.
