Single-use Plastics Ban in Australia

At e.sup we are celebrating, but what does this actually mean?

Most of Australia is already under a single-use plastic bag ban and many stores in NSW, particularly supermarkets, are already on board with this.  From June 1 it means all stores, in all states, will have to offer another method for carrying purchased goods.  Some states have already gone further than just plastic bags, the ban also extends to other single-use plastic items such as straws, cutlery and plates.  Western Australia is currently leading the way, most states fall into line by early 2023.  

Coffee cups could also hit this list of banned plastics too, which would be a huge win for the war on waste.  Approximately 1 billion takeaway coffee cups end up in landfill each each year in Australia.  It would be amazing if single-use plastic water/drink bottles could also be included at some point in the future.

The timelines for are unfortunately different for each state.  For a great summary of what is in place, where and when, The Australian Marine Conservation Society has published a great article, you can find it here.