The NSW Government is banning certain plastic items in two stages during 2022.
From 1 June 2022,
- lightweight plastic shopping bags (35 microns or less) will be banned.
From 1 November 2022, the following items will be banned:
- single-use plastic straws and stirrers
- single-use plastic cutlery
- single-use plastic plates and bowls without spill-proof lids
- foodware and cups made from expanded polystyrene (EPS)
- single-use plastic cotton buds
- rinse-off personal care products containing plastic microbeads.
Help for businesses and impacted organisations
Similar to the assistance we provide in other states for their single-use plastics bans, the National Retail Association (NRA) has partnered with the NSW Government to ensure retailers, hospitality, suppliers and community organisations are supported, informed and prepared.
We have been working closely with the Department of Planning & Environment to relay insight, understand the regulations and develop approved materials.
Throughout 2022, the NRA is delivering the following to assist impacted organisations:
Resources
Businesses need straightforward, commercially-relevant information to understand the ban, as well as display materials to help inform customers of the new laws. We have developed a Guide for Businesses, in-store signage, and point-of-sale material. Translated information is also on its way.
Tollfree hotline
If you can’t find an answer to your question on the website or within the factsheets, the NRA’s specialist team are available to provide advice. Our team can also answer questions about bans in other states.
Personal retailer visits
From today, the NRA are visiting over 650 retail centres and precincts across NSW to provide resources and face-to-face advice in stores. We also take lots of photos to promote positive examples of businesses preparing for the ban.
Online Q&A sessions
The NRA is holding online Q&A sessions regularly throughout 2022.
SESSIONS START THIS WEEK.
In these initial sessions, we will provide a brief overview of the ban and then focus on answering initial questions. These are ideal for retailers and suppliers directly impacted by the ban.
The first 2 sessions will be held via Zoom and will be identical agendas so you can pick which time suits you:
- Wednesday 23 February at 10 am AEDT
- Wednesday 2 March at 1 pm AEDT
REGISTER HERE: https://bit.ly/34RrFyw
Note: You do not need to be an NRA member to participate. Our support program is designed to assist all organisations impacted by the ban – whether large or small, retail or supplier, commercial or not-for-profit.
Keep up-to-date with plastic bans across Australia
Further sessions will be held throughout the year to keep answering questions that arise, provide ongoing support and materials, as well as special sessions for representative bodies which can help spread the word.
The NRA team also provide regular updates on plastic bans and sustainability initiatives rolling out across Australia and New Zealand.