Published on Friday, 22 June 2018 at 12:00:00 PM
Every year billions of lightweight plastic shopping bags are supplied nationally, with around seven million littered in WA alone. While plastic shopping bags make up a relatively small portion of solid waste and litter, they do not break down and can have devastating impacts on marine wildlife and birds.
From 1 July 2018, the supply of lightweight plastic bags will be banned in Western Australia, bringing WA into line with other Australian states including South Australia, Tasmania, the Northern Territory and Australian Capital Territory, who already have similar bans in place.
WA’s plastic bag ban will affect all retailers —from grocery and fast food stores to fashion boutiques, market stalls and pharmacies. This includes our local retailers within the Shire of Chittering. To assist retailers make the necessary business changes and rundown existing stocks, there is a transitional period until 31 December 2018.
Instead of using the usual lightweight plastic bags, consumers will have to remember to take reusable bags when they shop, or look to other alternatives—perhaps a cardboard box or, for just a few items, use your hands!
Make sure you have plenty of reusable bags. Stash them in your car, your handbag, your nappy bag, the pram, the basket on your bike and anywhere else you might need them. Make sure shopping bags are the first item on your shopping list!
Consumers can find more information about the WA Plastic Bag Ban and hints online at: https://www.der.wa.gov.au/your-environment/wa-plastic-bag-ban
Online resources are also available for retailers at: www.bagbanwa.com.au/
For further information please contact WA Bag Ban on 1800 817 723 or email bagbanwa@nra.net.au
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