Single-use plastic shopping bags will be banned across Victoria from 1 November, under new legislation introduced to parliament this week.
Environment Minister Lily D’Ambrosio said all single-use plastic shopping bags with a thickness of 35 microns or less will be banned, including bags made from degradable, biodegradable and compostable plastic.
The ban applies to bags provided by retail outlets including supermarkets, fashion boutiques, fast food outlets, convenience stores and service stations.
“These legislative changes follow an overwhelming number of responses during community consultation,” Ms D’Ambrosio said.
“The feedback on this one was clear. Victorians want to do more to protect the environment from the damage litter causes, and are overwhelmingly supportive of banning single-use plastic shopping bags.”
According to Ms D’Ambrosio, work is underway with the National Retailers Association to ensure Victorian businesses are prepared for the ban and have access to sustainable packaging alternatives.
A plastic pollution action plan is also under development to help reduce other types of plastic pollution.
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