Have you ever noticed the amount of single-use plastic cutlery and plates used in everyday life?
Figure 2: Australia bans single-use plastic plate and cutlery
Each year, Australia generates 2.5 million tonnes of plastic waste, of which around 84% is disposed of in landfills.
Additionally, approximately 130,000 tonnes of plastic waste are released into the environment annually. This amount of plastic waste stocked up in the background is a considerable concern for our coming generations.
But big news coming straight from Down Under, Australia has taken a significant step towards reducing plastic waste and protecting our beautiful planet. Grab your reusable water bottle and raise your eco-friendly game because single-use plastic plates and cutlery are officially banned.
Australia bans single-use plastic plate and cutlery
Yep, you heard it right. Australia is waving goodbye to those pesky plastic culprits and embracing a greener, cleaner future. By 2025, all single-use plastic plates and cutlery will be entirely off the shelves. Let’s discuss how this ban will impact our lives and what can be the best replacement options.
Phase out of single-use plastic plates and cutlery
We all know convenience is the key to our busy lives. But how does convenience go hand in hand with a sustainable lifestyle? Every meal served in restaurants, takeaways, and birthday parties where single-use plastic plates and cutlery are used now going down the drain.
We don’t understand how harmful it is for our health when we are exposed to plastic for long periods, yet it is still found in products that come into contact with food. So to begin the journey towards a greener future, Australia takes the lead and implements the ban.
Australia plans to decrease plastic waste by phasing out single-use plastics, such as straws and cutlery, starting in 2025.
The environment ministers agreed to ban eight types of plastic waste considered problematic and unnecessary. These include lightweight plastic bags, plastic labeled as “degradable” (which isn’t), plastic utensils and stirrers, plastic straws, polystyrene food containers, polystyrene packaging for consumer goods, and micro beads commonly found in personal care products.
The Australian government has already announced its intention to eliminate “single-use plastics” by December 2025 gradually. This includes a ban on using expanded polystyrene food containers, which will be prohibited by December 2022. The banned single-use plastics have:
- Plastic bags
- Plastic drinking straws
- Cotton buds with plastic sticks
- Plastic bowls and plates
- Plastic cutlery (including knives, forks, plates, spoons, chopsticks, sporks, stirrers, and food picks)
- expanded polystyrene food and drink containers
- Products containing microbeads.
How to prepare for the single-use plastic ban: Some important measures
With the single-use plastic ban on the horizon, it’s time to gear up and prepare for a plastic-free future. But fret not because we’ve got your back with some excellent tips to help you easily navigate this green transition.
If you own a restaurant or cafe, a convenience store shop, or running an event, here are the solutions to help you adopt eco-friendly alternatives.
- Undertake An Audit Of Your Current Single-Use Plastic Usage
- Inform Your Staff And Consumers
- Stop Ordering Single-Use Plastics
- Search for A Suitable Eco-Friendly Alternative
Bagasse tableware vs. Plastic cutlery
Figure 3: Bagasse tableware vs. Plastic
Understanding the difference between plastic cutlery and Bagasse tableware before important e making a switch. Plastic cutlery is made from nonbiodegradable petroleum-based polymers that may take thousands of years to decompose.
On the other hand, Bagasse tableware is made from sugarcane stalks and is considered an eco-friendly and sustainable alternative to plastic.
It’s sturdy and heat-resistant, so you can enjoy your piping-hot meals without worrying about soggy surprises. Finally, with its natural, earthy look and feel, bagasse tableware adds a touch of rustic charm to any gathering, whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a fancy dinner party.
So, let’s raise our bagasse plates high and toast to a sustainable dining experience that’s both kind to the environment and oh-so-chic.
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GangXuan | Your next partner in sustainable dining
GangXuan is a leading eco-friendly tableware supplier committed to providing sustainable solutions for the hospitality and food industry. With our vast bagasse products, you can easily find the perfect match for your business. From disposable plates and bowls to cutlery sets and trays, we have something for every occasion.
Our products are made from 100% natural and renewable materials, which are biodegradable, microwave-safe, and heat-resistant. So come on board and join us in this journey towards sustainability! Let’s work together to create a greener future for all. Contact us for more details.
