The State Government will introduce a range of fresh rules around single-use plastics.
It has announced plastic bread tags and pizza savers must be phased out by 2027, while non-compostable plastic fruit and vegetable stickers must be gone by 2030.
In addition, tethered lids (meaning the cap or lid on a plastic bottle must remain attached to the bottle itself, even after it’s opened) will be required for plastic bottles by 2030.
Takeaway food service businesses will be forced to accept reusable cups by 2028 and large food service businesses must provide reusable cup options by 2030.
The government will also work to phase out small condiment containers such as soy sauce fish bottles by 2030 and similar single-use packaging that cannot be recycled, in favour of recyclable options.
The government has also called for a redesign of takeaway food containers, such as plastic bowls with lids, bento boxes and sushi trays, to ensure they can be recycled safely.
“Microplastics are entering our bodies and plastic is polluting our environment and oceans, killing our wildlife," said NSW Environment Minister, Penny Sharpe.
“This plan moves NSW another step closer to phasing out these problematic items.
“Our plan has carefully considered actions we need to take to protect the environment and human health, while also considering how we can support industry to transition to recyclable or reusable alternatives.
“The great news is that industry is already moving this way – many businesses are leading the way in developing alternatives to single-use plastics.
“We will continue to work with industry, small businesses, manufacturers, retailers and councils to support a smooth transition to safer, recyclable alternatives.”
Plastic makes up around 74 per cent of litter in our waterways, and less than 16 per cent of plastic waste is recycled in NSW, with the remainder taking up valuable space in landfill.
Troy has more than 20 years experience as a journalist, working with some of Australia's leading media organisations. In 2023, he was named Editor of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.