The NSW government has this week released a discussion paper on plastics in NSW.
The discussion paper proposes to phase out key single use plastics such as lightweight shopping bags within the next 12 to 18 months.
Here in NSW on this issue we are somewhat behind the times it seems, as every other state and territory in Australia has already commenced a mandated phase out of certain types of single-use plastic items.
Some of the major retailers in NSW have voluntarily phased out lightweight shopping bags, and increasingly some other stores are following suit.
The discussion paper is open for comment until Friday, May 8.
It proposes to legislate a ban by the end of the year, and then give businesses six months to get ready for the legislation to come into effect.
The discussion paper also talks about other key single use items that are a risk to our environment and that the NSW government would consider phasing out, such as disposable plastic cutlery and single-use food serving items, expanded polystyrene food and beverage containers, plastic straws and heavier plastic bags.
At its state conference in 1999, the CWA of NSW discussed and confirmed a policy position on plastic bags - it states that we urge all retail outlets to cease using plastic bags.
I am proud of the history of the CWA of NSW who have been campaigning for this ever since, and who have themselves undertaken a number of proactive steps to reduce our own plastic waste and sustainable use of resources as an association.
More recently, in 2018 our members confirmed policy that encourages the use of containers and bags made from environmentally sound alternatives to plastic.
Its safe to say, in terms of the current debate, that we support moving away from single use plastic bags, in favour of environmentally friendly alternatives.
Since eliminating the plastic bags at the major retailers I have seen many of our branches come up with fantastic alternatives, like using repurposed material to sew tote sized carry bags with a wide handle so they are easy to carry the heavier grocery items without digging into the hands.
The key is remembering to take the bags to the shops, but that is no burden when we consider the positive environmental impact to be gained from taking these steps.
Lots of stores are now offering cardboard boxes to take the shopping home.
Our Agriculture and Environment Committee recently met in Sydney, and they are following this development with strong interest.
The committee also want to alert the community about the recycling that is currently available.
Both Coles and Woolworths have soft plastic recycling bins in all stores that are not widely known about.
- Stephanie Stanhope is the CWA of NSW president.
