Working to phase out problematic single-use plastics

Nick Duigan, Minister for Parks and Environment

20 August 2024


Tasmanians can have their say about a proposed phase-out of several problematic single-use plastics following the release of a discussion paper.

The Tasmanian Government has committed to the phase-out along with all other states and territories.

Minister for Parks and Environment, Nick Duigan, said the Tasmanian Government’s phase-out will improve waste management and protect our environment as we strive to make Tasmania a place where nothing is wasted.

“We’re starting a conversation with the community about how we can phase out these problematic single-use plastics,” Minister Duigan said.

“We want to look at how this can be achieved and how we can support the community in making the transition, as our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future continues to make Tasmania the best place to live, work and raise a family.

“It is estimated 160 million single-use plastic items are used in Tasmania each year, and these plastics can take hundreds of years to break down.

“The 2023-24 Tasmanian Statewide Litter Survey found that plastic packaging made up almost half the amount of rubbish counted.”

The Tasmanian Government has committed $1 million over four years to plan and implement legislation to phase out certain PSUPs.

The items include plastic drinking straws, beverage cups and stirrers, takeaway food containers and polystyrene packaging.

“We know Tasmanians are passionate about the environment and phasing out PSUPs will be good for oceans, wildlife and Tasmanians,” Minister Duigan said.

“All Tasmanians can help reduce single-use waste now by choosing alternatives such as reusable coffee cups, lunch containers and utensils."

Businesses are encouraged to provide feedback during the consultation period which will run for six weeks until 1 October 2024.

A copy of the Discussion Paper is available: https://nre.tas.gov.au/environment/problematic-single-use-plastics/single-use-plastics-public-consultation

To have your say, and to see a full list of items proposed to be phased out: https://nre.tas.gov.au/environment/problematic-single-use-plastics

Nick Duigan, Minister for Parks and Environment

20 August 2024


Tasmanians can have their say about a proposed phase-out of several problematic single-use plastics following the release of a discussion paper.

The Tasmanian Government has committed to the phase-out along with all other states and territories.

Minister for Parks and Environment, Nick Duigan, said the Tasmanian Government’s phase-out will improve waste management and protect our environment as we strive to make Tasmania a place where nothing is wasted.

“We’re starting a conversation with the community about how we can phase out these problematic single-use plastics,” Minister Duigan said.

“We want to look at how this can be achieved and how we can support the community in making the transition, as our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future continues to make Tasmania the best place to live, work and raise a family.

“It is estimated 160 million single-use plastic items are used in Tasmania each year, and these plastics can take hundreds of years to break down.

“The 2023-24 Tasmanian Statewide Litter Survey found that plastic packaging made up almost half the amount of rubbish counted.”

The Tasmanian Government has committed $1 million over four years to plan and implement legislation to phase out certain PSUPs.

The items include plastic drinking straws, beverage cups and stirrers, takeaway food containers and polystyrene packaging.

“We know Tasmanians are passionate about the environment and phasing out PSUPs will be good for oceans, wildlife and Tasmanians,” Minister Duigan said.

“All Tasmanians can help reduce single-use waste now by choosing alternatives such as reusable coffee cups, lunch containers and utensils."

Businesses are encouraged to provide feedback during the consultation period which will run for six weeks until 1 October 2024.

A copy of the Discussion Paper is available: https://nre.tas.gov.au/environment/problematic-single-use-plastics/single-use-plastics-public-consultation

To have your say, and to see a full list of items proposed to be phased out: https://nre.tas.gov.au/environment/problematic-single-use-plastics

Page published: 28 Aug 2024, 11:40 AM