Queensland is expanding its ban on single-use plastics, announcing that as of September 2023 plastic microbiota, polystyrene packaging peanuts and cotton swabs with plastic stems will no longer be available for use. sale.
While not part of the 2023 phase, the government has also unveiled plans to phase out disposable coffee cups over the next five years.
The mass release of “lighter balloons than air,” which is usually done at events such as weddings, parties, and fundraisers, will also be banned.
Queensland could eliminate disposable coffee cups in five years. (iStock)
“Disposable plastics are problematic and the people of Queensland have made it clear that they want to give them the plus point,” said Environment Minister Meaghan Scanlon.
“They don’t break, they fill our landfills and kill wildlife.”
Scanlon also noted that the government plans to eliminate other popular plastics such as coffee cups by 2027.
“It’s great to see that so many companies are already taking voluntary action and going beyond our bans, and it’s time to support those voluntary commitments and strengthen our actions in the fight against plastic pollution,” he said.
“Our roadmap will gradually eliminate other problematic disposable plastics over the next five years, including the goal of disposing of disposable coffee cups and lids after work with other states and territories.
“Of course, we will continue to work with retailers, community groups and suppliers to have alternative products in place.”
The Queensland government is phasing out plastic cotton swabs, microbiota and the massive release of balloons by September 2023. (Supplied)
The Palaszczuk government gradually phased out disposable light shopping bags in 2018 and last year banned a number of disposable plastic food products such as straws, shakers, cutlery, plates, unclosed bowls and takeaway packaging of expanded polystyrene (EPS) and EPS glasses.
A fierce conflict is taking place over these plants