By Abbey Cannan
Noosa was selected as the first community in Australia to take on the plastic free battle in 2018 and soon the rest of the state will join the fight.
Polystyrene foam food containers and cups as well as single-use plastic straws, stirrers, cutlery and plates will all be banned from September 1, under new legislation passed by Queensland Parliament.
Tourism Noosa’s Plastic Free Program Manager, Anita Butler said since 2018, Noosa has already had huge success in the initiative, eliminating over 4.5 million pieces of plastic.
“We look forward to seeing further positive environmental changes for Noosa, as Queensland officially becomes the second State in Australia to introduce a ban on single-use plastic items,“ she said.
Ms Butler said the momentum continued building for businesses and events in Noosa wanting to be eco-friendly and significantly reduce their environmental footprint.
“A key priority was to drive a reduction in single-use plastic water bottles and since launching an aluminium alternative for businesses in August 2020, we have managed to eliminate over 50,000 single-use plastic water bottles,“ she said.
“Research shows that visitors want to make sustainable choices and this impacts their decision making when choosing a holiday destination.
“Consumer demand for sustainable tourism practices in Australia has been rising for several years, and we want Noosa to be the choice destination for travellers interested in sustainable destinations.
“The satisfaction that visitors get knowing that Noosa is a relaxing and beautiful destination because it is cared for and looked after by its local community is priceless for the region and we are also educating visitors to Noosa via our new website and social channels, putting a spotlight on supporting Plastic Free Champion businesses and local specialty suppliers who are showcasing sustainable practices and providing some handy yet simple tips for individuals,“ Ms Butler said.
Environment Minister Meaghan Scanlon said there was overwhelming community support for banning these types of products which were too often discarded thoughtlessly.
“Plastic pollution is spoiling our streets and parks, escaping into our ocean and waterways and killing our iconic wildlife,” Minister Scanlon said.
“Half of all plastic produced is designed to be used only once and then thrown away and that litter is destroying our environment.“
There will be exemptions to the ban for anyone who may require access to a single-use plastic item, such as a plastic straw, due to permanent or temporary disability or other healthcare needs.
