Another plastic backflip

SUPERMARKET giant Coles has done yet another backflip on its stance on banning plastic.

The supermarket yesterday revealed it was extending its popular Little Shop miniatures campaign until next month – a move that has outraged environmentalists. It was due to end on August 28

The decision, the latest change of tact on plastic use for the supermarket in recent months, was yesterday dubbed “disappointing” and “bad policy”.

Coles dumped single-use plastic bags on July 1 in Victoria, NSW, Qld and WA but customers vented their frustrations resulting in the supermarket handing out free reusable plastic bags which are normally 15 cents each.

These bags are still being offered for free in these states.

Director of environmental group Boomerang Alliance Jeff Angel said the latest move by Coles was harmful given the problems plastic can cause.

“The dumping of these trinkets in the environment over coming months and years will inevitably put the company in an ongoing negative light,” he said.

The mini collectables are available for every $30 spent.

They have proven a hit with shoppers trying to complete sets with bite-sized groceries including Tim Tams, Nutella, Milo and Huggies nappies.

Greenpeace campaigner Zoe Deans said: “It seems like Coles are oblivious to how their actions are contributing to an avalanche of single-use plastic in the environment.”