Western Australia has stepped up in its war on plastic, banning nine items of single-use plastic items after a six-month transition period for businesses to get ready from 1 January.
The items now banned include plates, bowls, cutlery, drink stirrers, drinking straws, thick plastic bags, expanded polystyrene (EPS) food containers, helium balloon releases and unlidded containers.
According to the Minister for the Environment, Reece Whitby, disposable plastic cups for cold drinks are to be banned from October when Western Australia will be leading the nation by banning thick plastic bags, unlidded containers and disposable cups for cold drinks to follow.
Mr Whitby said the extensive engagement program over the past six months assisted more than 10,000 businesses to adjust to the new requirements, with a significant number “already doing the right thing.
“I encourage shoppers to do their part by using their own sustainable products instead of disposable items from a retailer, and show their understanding that when buying groceries or takeaway food, some items will no longer be available,” he said.
He said the Government recognised that enforcement of the bans was coming into effect during a time when businesses were dealing with the economic impact of COVID-19 and disrupted supply chains.
“We will take a common-sense approach to enforcement,” he said.
He said that since January the Government had funded a retailer and supplier engagement program, implemented by the National Retail Association (NRA), to provide assistance to more than 10,000 retailers, food outlets, suppliers, community organisations and shopping centres likely to be affected by the plastic ban.
“Over the past four months, NRA liaison officers have visited over 300 shopping precincts and spoken to more than 4,000 retailers in their stores to supply information materials, provide advice and answer questions about the regulations,” Mr Whitby said.
“They have also held 20 online information sessions and responded to more than 400 queries via a toll-free hotline and email.”
He said more than 150 suppliers had been contacted to ensure their responsibilities under the ban were clear.
“Additionally, the Plastic Free places program, run in partnership with the Boomerang Alliance, has also been on the ground providing individualised support and solutions for cafes, event hosts, markets and other hospitality,” Mr Whitby said.
More information about the Western Australia’s Plan for Plastics can be found on the WA.gov website at this PS News link.
