Plastic straws banned from November

From 1 June, the supply of lightweight plastic shopping bags will be banned in NSW as part of the Plastic Reduction and Circular Economy Act 2021.

Then, from 1 November, the bans will also include:

• single-use plastic straws, stirrers, swizzle sticks, bowls, plates, cutlery; including forks, spoons, knives, sporks, splayds, chopsticks and food picks. Exemptions will apply in certain settings to ensure continued access to single-use plastic straws for people with a disability or medical need.
• expanded polystyrene (EPS) food service items such as such as clamshells, cups, plates and bowls will also be banned in NSW.

The ban applies even if these items are made from biodegradable, compostable or bio-plastics and applies to all organisations and commercial businesses, including retail, hospitality (such as restaurants, cafes, bars, takeaway food shops, supermarkets, market stalls and online stores), manufacturers, distributors and wholesalers.