The Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (DWER) has reminded hospitality venues that a ban on single-use plastics comes into force on 1 July.
In a statement, the Department said the ban applied to plastic straws and stirrers, cutlery, plates and bowls.
“Straws will continue to be available for people in the community who require them to meet their life needs, but from 1 October, businesses can no longer supply disposable plastic cups for cold drinks,” DWER said.
It said it was supporting businesses to make the change and find alternatives, teaming with Boomerang Alliance, a not-for-profit organisation working on waste minimisation and recycling.
“The Alliance works with businesses’ existing local suppliers to choose the best reusable items and alternatives to plastics,” the Department said.
“It is estimated that since it was formed in 2003, the Alliance has prevented the use of more than 10 million pieces of plastic throughout Australia.”
DWER said the Government’s Plan for Plastics had been fast-tracked, leading to a range of single-use plastics being phased out by 1 January 2023.
Minister for the Environment, Reece Whitby said the Government was committed to lowering the amount of waste that ended up in landfill and to reducing the use of single-use plastics, which were harmful for the environment.
“This has had overwhelming community support,” Mr Whitby said.
“However, we understand it’s not always easy for business owners to find alternatives to single-use plastics while also running their business,” he said.
“By engaging with the Boomerang Alliance, businesses can take advantage of the knowledge and experience of people who have expertise in the field, and who can offer long-term solutions.”
Further information on reducing plastics can be accessed at this PS News link.
