The NSW government is taking action to reduce plastic waste, announcing the next phase of single-use and problematic plastic phase-outs ahead of National Recycling Week.
Plastic remains one of NSW’s biggest environmental challenges. It accounts for around 74 per cent of litter in waterways, and less than 16 per cent of plastic waste is recycled, with the remainder filling landfill.
According to the state government, Greater Sydney could run out of landfill space by 2030, putting pressure on households, councils and businesses. By 2050, it is predicted there could be more plastic than fish in the ocean.
The next stage of the NSW Plastics Plan targets hard-to-recycle plastic products, giving business and industry time to transition while helping reduce waste and landfill demand. Changes will be phased in to allow businesses to adjust and identify practical alternatives.
“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,” said minister for the Environment Penny Sharpe.
The plan also aims to encourage investment in recycling infrastructure and reusable products, with the Government working closely with industry to support the transition and minimise disruption.
In an Australian first, the plan will introduce a ‘green’ and ‘red’ list of chemicals permitted in plastics. This will phase out chemicals that are harmful to human health or the environment and have safer alternatives already in use.
Key actions under NSW Plastics Plan 2.0 include:
- Phasing out plastic bread tags and pizza savers from late 2027.
- Phasing out non-compostable fruit and vegetable stickers by 2030.
- Requiring tethered lids on plastic bottles by 2030, so caps remain attached even after opening.
- Requiring takeaway food service businesses to accept reusable cups by 2028, and large food service businesses to provide reusable cup options by 2030.
- Phasing out small single-use condiment containers, such as soy sauce bottles, by 2030 in favour of recyclable options.
- Redesigning takeaway containers, including plastic bowls with lids, bento boxes and sushi trays, to ensure they can be safely recycled.
- Regulating harmful chemical additives in plastic food and beverage packaging to prevent toxins entering soil, water and the food chain.
- Banning lighter-than-air balloon releases, in line with other states.
“We welcome the NSW’s Government’s recognition that an adjustment period for businesses will support a smooth transition, and we’re excited by the possibilities further innovations in this space may present,” said general manager, Mars Food & Nutrition Australia, Bill Heague.
The NSW government’s approach builds on previous bans of lightweight plastic bags, straws, stirrers and single-use cutlery. It has been shaped through consultation with industry, environment groups and the community.
Consultation with industry, small businesses, manufacturers, retailers and councils will continue to support a smooth transition to safer, recyclable alternatives. The NSW Environment Protection Authority has already engaged with industry in detail.
“The great news is that industry is already moving this way – many businesses are leading the way in developing alternatives to single-use plastics,” said Sharpe.
“We will continue to work with industry, small businesses, manufacturers, retailers and councils to support a smooth transition to safer, recyclable alternatives.”