By Romy Stephens
Yarra Ranges businesses are being urged to prepare for the upcoming statewide plastic bag ban.
From 1 November, lightweight plastic bags with a thickness below 36 microns can no longer be given to customers, regardless of whether it is new or reused.
The law applies to all retailers and suppliers including supermarkets, retail stores, fast food outlets and petrol stations.
It also includes compostable, degradable and biodegradable plastic bags.
Yarra Ranges Mayor Tony Stevenson said the community has already embraced reusable bags and the state ban would further encourage business to find alternatives.
“We’ve seen a significant shift in the last year, with major supermarkets phasing out their lightweight plastic bag use and the community embracing reusable bags,” he said.
“The State Government’s ban on all single-use lightweight bags is the next step in this, and we’re encouraging our local businesses to prepare for the ban and look at what alternatives they can supply for their customers.
“We know this will be a big change for a number of our businesses, and the State Government has websites, hotlines and information to help business owners to navigate the ban.”
The State Government will work with the National Retailers Association (NRA) to help Victorian businesses prepare for the ban.
The ban is part of numerous measures the State Government is conducting to reduce the impact of plastic pollution.
Minister for energy, environment and climate change Lily D’Ambrosio said the ban will “help ensure Victoria has a clean and bright future.”
“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,” she said.
The statewide ban follows a self-imposed ban, on providing free, lightweight plastic bags, from major supermarkets Coles and Woolworths last year.
For more information on the banning of lightweight shopping bags visit www.environment.vic.gov.au/sustainability/plastic-pollution.
Businesses seeking support or advice can also call the NRA toll-free Bag Ban Hotline 1800 817 723.
