In an Australian first, public events in the ACT have been declared plastic-free as the next step in the Territory’s Plastic Reduction Act 2021 comes into effect.
Minister for Transport and City Services, Chris Steel marked the occasion by announcing the major Territory events committed to cutting out more plastic than was required under the legislation.
“In addition (to) the already banned products, these declared events will be prohibited from supplying plastic straws, plastic takeaway containers and single-use plastic plates and bowls, replacing them with sustainable alternatives,” Mr Steel said.
He said the events included the Royal Canberra Show; Australia Day in the Capital; National Folk Festival; Enlighten Festival; The Balloon Spectacular; Symphony in the Park; Canberra Day; and Reconciliation Day.
“In recognition of the needs of people with disability and medical conditions, plastic straws will still be made available to members of the community who may need them at these inclusive events,” Mr Steel said.
The Minister also called for community feedback on the next tranche of phase-outs to come into effect in June.
He said the next tranche would include single-use plastic straws (with exemptions for those who needed them); single-use plastic fruit and vegetable barrier bags; cotton buds with plastic sticks; and all oxo-degradable plastic products, such as degradable plastic bags and degradable dog waste bags.
“Government has identified the tranche 2 items well ahead of time and has been consulting with industry and disability organisations on the implementation of the phase-out over the past two years,” Mr Steel said.
“This is the final opportunity to hear from individuals, businesses, community organisations, institutions and peak bodies who would be affected by the ban.
“We are particularly keen to hear from people with a disability and their advocates about exemptions for the supply of straws to people with a disability based on the South Australian and Queensland models.”
Mr Steel said that, in those jurisdictions, straws were still available at pharmacies or care facilities and in South Australia they were available at hospitality venues upon request, without needing to present any evidence.
Further information on how to have a say on the next tranche of single-use plastic bans can be accessed at this PS News link.
