SINGLE-USE plastics are likely to be scrapped as the State Government plans to ban a range of products used in the hospitality sector.
In what would be an Australian first, single-use items including plastic straws, cutlery and stirrers would be replaced by biodegradable options in an aim to maintain the state’s reputation as a leader in waste management.
The proposed ban comes after an increase in the solid waste levy, which will result in waste dumping fees increasing from $55 per tonne to $70 as of January 1.
Environment and Water Minister David Speirs said a discussion paper released earlier this year received strong feedback from South Australians keen to see action on single-use plastics.
“It is clear from the more than 3500 submissions there is significant community and industry support for increased measures to address a range of single-use plastic products and other items,” Mr Speirs said.
“Nearly 99pc of respondents recognised the environmental problems associated with single-use plastics and nearly 97pc supported government intervention.”
Mount Gambier businessman Nick Moretti, who operates Delicia and Zambrero, said the proposal is a great initiative for businesses to have a positive impact on the environment.
“I think it may be tough for the government to enforce on businesses as I am not sure how they will control what products businesses are using,” Mr Moretti said.
“With new business owners or those struggling, biodegradable alternatives may be a substantial cost factor they can not afford.
“Although I think it is a hopeful case of whether businesses are open to taking the idea on board as it better for the environment.”
Mr Moretti said both of his stores already use biodegradable alternatives and the environmental benefits significantly outweigh cost factors.
“Basically everything we use at Delicia is biodegradable, from our coffee cups to our cutlery,” he said.
“Zambero made the switch to paper straws last year.
“This does play a part in Delicia’s healthy eating, healthy mind image and our attracted clientele seem to have a more world-conscious mindset, with customers often bringing in their own bowls and cups anyway.
“We do not shove it in people’s faces, but it is quite cool to say when people ask as we are having our own impact and sometimes people are genuinely shocked.”
Mr Speirs said draft legislation will be released later this year with a view to ban plastic straws, cutlery and stirrers with takeaway polystyrene containers and cups next.
“Further consideration would be needed when looking at takeaway coffee cups, plastic bags and other takeaway food service items following consultation,” he said.
“We will release draft legislation for further public consultation with the intention to introduce it to the Parliament in 2020.”
