A taskforce, with representation from 15 different organisations, has meet to help inform the next steps towards banning single-use plastics in South Australia.
The state government asked the taskforce to consider what impacts legislation might have on businesses and the community, and provide advice on what a phase out of single-use plastic straws, cups, drink stirrers and food service items might look like.
Environment Minister David Speirs said the taskforce is made up of a range of interested stakeholders, including environmental groups, business representatives, the hospitality industry and disability advocates.
“The group will discuss solutions and alternatives as part of any move to phase out single-use plastics, to ensure South Australians can transition smoothly,” Mr Speirs said.
“The taskforce will also seek presentations and meetings with those with a stake in any future changes to legislation, and will assist communication with the community and business.”
According to Mr Speirs, South Australia leads the nation in issues of environmental responsibility.
“The issue of our plastic use and plastic pollution is one of the most pressing topics of our time, and we won’t be left standing on the sidelines watching the impact on our environment go unchecked,” Mr Speirs said.
“We know that our interstate colleagues are eagerly awaiting the outcomes from our taskforce and from our plastic free precinct trials. We want South Australia to again lead the way nationally and provide a blueprint for how to reduce single-use plastics.”
Legislation banning single-use plastics in South Australia is expected to be introduced into parliament in the first half of 2020.
Members of the single use plastics task force include:
Australian Food and Grocery Council
Australian Hotels Association (SA)
Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation
Conservation Council SA
Environment Protection Authority
Green Industries SA
KESAB environmental solutions
Local Government Association of SA
National Retail Association
JFA Purple Orange
Disability Elders of All Ages
Restaurant and Catering Industry Association
SA Independent Retailers
Waste Management Resource Recovery Association
Woolworths Group
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