The latest ban on single-use plastics is now in effect as part of efforts to stop waste from ending up in local waterways, beaches and landfill.
The Department of Environment and Science (DES) said the ban covered single-use plastic straws, stirrers, cutlery, plates and unenclosed bowls, as well as single-use takeaway containers and cups made from expanded polystyrene.
“This will help reduce single-use plastic pollution by 20 per cent over the next two years,” the DES said.
Minister for the Environment, Meaghan Scanlon said banning single-use plastics added to the Government’s record $1.4 billion allocation to protect the environment, support business and create jobs.
“In partnership with the National Retail Association, we’ve already engaged with more than 5,000 businesses over the past three months, helping small to large retailers to prepare for the ban,” Ms Scanlon said.
“There will be exemptions to ensure Queenslanders with disability or healthcare needs can continue to access and use items necessary for them.”
She said with the economy and jobs now growing and recovering from the impacts of COVID-19, so too was the State’s environment with the ban of even more single-use plastics.
Chief Executive Officer of the National Retail Association, Dominique Lamb said retailers were supportive of environmental initiatives and many had been transitioning to more sustainable and reusable items for some time.
“We’ve gone to over 310 centres and shopping strips throughout the State, providing resources and advice to cafes, restaurants, food outlets, discount stores, supermarkets, party suppliers, markets and many more,” Ms Lamb said.
“Even though many retailers have been doing it tough during the pandemic, the response has been overwhelmingly positive with retailers keen to do their bit for the environment,” she said.
Further information on banned items is available at this PS News link.
