Prepare Now
STEP 1: STOCKTAKE
Check your inventory of single-use plastic bowls and plates to ensure you will be ready for the change starting on September 1, 2023. If you use plastic stemmed cotton buds and/or plastic pizza savers, be aware that these will also be banned September 1, 2023.
- Stop ordering single-use plastic bowls and plates now.
- Stop ordering single-use plastic pizza savers now.
- Stop ordering plastic stemmed cotton buds now.
- Use up existing stock before September 1, 2023.
STEP 2: ORDER ALTERNATIVES
Order alternatives ASAP.
Visit ALTERNATIVE ITEMS for information about suppliers of alternative products.
STEP 3: EXCESS STOCK OPTIONS
Don’t stockpile unused products for a rainy day.
Here are some options to avoid sending the single-use items to landfill:
RETURN: Contact your supplier for return options. These products may still be used interstate but items should be in the original, unopened packaging.
RECYCLE: Enquire if excess stock can be recycled – this depends on the type of plastic and if it has a use. Contact these companies (fees may apply):
YCA Recycling, Wingfield, Adelaide
Phone: 1300 503 882
ycarecycling.com
Recycling Plastics Australia, Kilburn, Adelaide
Phone: 8359 1111
rpau.com.au/contact
STEP 4: PREPARE FOR DISPOSAL
- Correct disposal of compostable items may mean changing your waste management and recycling systems and practices so prepare now.
- In response to customer expectations, cafes and restaurants are increasingly introducing collection systems to recycle and avoid food waste – speak to your waste contractor for more information.
STEP 5: EDUCATE YOUR STAFF
- Tell staff about the new legislation and how your business is going to avoid or replace the waste.
- Train staff to communicate the change to your customers.
STEP 6: INFORM YOUR CUSTOMERS
- Display supplied Point of Sale materials available to download and print.
- Help your customers to transition by communicating the change early.
- Tell customers with disability and health needs if you decide to keep single-use plastic straws for their use on request.
- Encourage customers to BYO their own reusable straws where appropriate.