Single-use plastics ban looming

Asingle-use plastic ban will be implemented across Victoria on February 1.

Single-use plastic drinking straws and stirrers, cutlery, plates, cotton buds and food service items, along with drink containers made from expanded polystyrene, will be banned.

Horsham Sports and Community Club manager Glenn Carroll said the business had not used plastic straws for about five years.

“We also transitioned away from plastic cutlery and used bamboo cutlery for takeaway during COVID-19,” he said.

“We’ve tried to be ahead in terms of doing the right thing.

“The change came out of strategic planning to reduce our plastic. It’s the best thing to do for the planet.

“There’s too much plastic around. We are here to look after the community and that includes the environment. This is a way we can contribute.”

Horsham RSL manager Tim Nurse said it was good for the environment for the business to reduce plastic use.

“We haven’t ordered plastic straws in more than a year and use as many biodegradable products as we can,” he said.

“I think most businesses have been moving in this direction already.”

National Retail Association policy manager Ebony Johnson said Victorian businesses had responded positively during their engagement program, which included visiting more than 3000 stores across the state.

“We’ve engaged over 15,000 retailers, suppliers, peak bodies and other stakeholders in the past few months, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive,” she said.

For businesses still transitioning, Ms Johnson encouraged them to act now and access the free support services available.

“Firstly, I recommend businesses visit the Victorian government website to download free resources and information to ensure they understand what’s included in the ban, as plastic regulations vary across states and territories,” she said.

“Businesses can also ask questions at the free online information sessions we host at 11am every Friday, or call our toll-free hotline for advice.”

Change behaviour

Ms Johnson said the ban was a good opportunity to change business and customer behaviours.

“The best alternative is to avoid using or supplying that item by asking if it is something you need – if you’re grabbing takeaway food to eat at home, you probably don’t need disposable cutlery,” she said.

“Another alternative is to use reusable alternatives. If most of your customers dine in-store, then reusable cutlery and plates are a great option to reduce waste.

“Finally, if choosing disposables look for the most sustainable option.

“Alternatives made from compostable or ‘plant-based’ plastics are included in the ban, as they are no better for the environment than plastic when littered.

“We encourage businesses to ask their supplier a few simple questions to ensure alternatives are compliant.”

Ms Johnson said coffee cups and takeaway containers were not included in the ban unless made from expanded polystyrene.

“We believe it’s a well-reasoned ban with alternative options widely available, and while it’s great if businesses take proactive steps on other items, the regulations are designed to be manageable and practical for all organisations to implement now,” she said.

Ms Johnson said the ban applied to all businesses and community groups, but it was important to note that plastic straws would still be available and legal to supply to members of the community who need them.

She said from February 1, businesses cannot sell or supply the banned products no matter when they were purchased.

“Victorian consumers expressed high support for a ban on these items and even if there are a few inconveniences during the transition we tend to find that eases within a matter of weeks as everyone adjusts to the changes,” she said.

Ms Johnson encouraged businesses to communicate with customers, display the posters available on the government website and access free advice if needed, with support services continuing before and after the ban.

She said more information was available online at www.vic.gov.au/ plastics

She said the free hotline number was 1800 844 946 and to register for an information session, people could visit www.eventbrite.com.au/e/vicplastics-ban-business-info-sessionstickets-433412176487