City Services is calling for public input on a proposal to phase out more single-use plastic items from July of next year.
Issuing the call the Minister for Transport and City Services, Chris Steel said the next tranche of plastic items proposed to be banned included boutique or heavyweight bags, single-use takeaway containers, and single-use plates and bowls.
Mr Steel said the proposal also included plastic microbeads in rinse-off personal care, cosmetic and cleaning products, and expanded polystyrene products and packaging (with potential exemptions for household appliances).
“We have taken a progressive approach to phasing out single-use plastics and have received widespread community and business support,” Mr Steel said.
“We’ve already banned the supply of single-use plastic cutlery, drink stirrers, expanded polystyrene food and beverage containers, plastic straws, cotton buds with plastic sticks and all oxo-degradable plastics,” he said.
“Now we are seeking input on the next stage of the process as we work to cut plastic waste and level the playing field to support the businesses, organisations and individuals who have already made the switch.”
Mr Steel said the phase-out of the third tranche of single-use plastic items was proposed for 1 July next year.
“To provide Canberrans with a clear path forward on removing problematic waste streams from our city, the ACT Government will also soon be releasing a draft Circular Economy Strategy,” the Minister said.
“The strategy will consider how we create and support new jobs, better manage problematic waste streams and design supply chains to stop waste streams from emerging in the first place.”
Further information on the proposed ban can be accessed at this PS News link.
