The South Australian parliament has passed laws banning single-use plastics such as straws and cutlery.
"There has been significant community and industry support for swift action on single-use plastic products with many households and businesses across the state already taking steps to remove them," Environment Minister David Speirs said.
"However, with COVID-19 restrictions still impacting on society and in particular the hospitality industry, we will delay the commencement of the legislation." Shane Cucow, plastics spokesperson for the Australian Marine Conservation Society, welcomed the Marshall government’s action and said it had cemented the state’s place as Australia’s leader in the fight against wildlife-killing plastics.
“These historic new laws will prevent lethal plastic straws and cutlery from entering South Australia’s waterways and oceans, potentially saving the lives of countless seabirds, dolphins and whales."When the legislation comes into effect, single-use straws, cutlery and stirrers will be banned, although exemptions will be made for people with a disability or medical requirements.
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