Consultation on draft regulations begins today with people invited to provide input as to how they would like to see bans implemented as well as proposed exemptions.

From September next year, the ban is set to extend to a number of other items including plastic bags (produce barrier bags and thicker ‘boutique’ style bags), polystyrene and plastic food and beverage containers, single-use plastic cold cups and single-use plastic coffee cups.

In 2025, plastic fruit stickers, plastic soy sauce, single-use plastic food containers and pre-packaged products such as straws attached to drink containers and spoons and forks attached to pre-packaged food are all set to be banned.

Plastic waste. Photo supplied.

In November last year, The state government accelerated its plans to phase out single-use plastics.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Environment Susan Close said South Australians urgently wanted action on single-use plastics according to community surveys conducted last year.

“South Australians are increasingly uncomfortable with the proliferation of single-use plastic and the effect it has on our environment including waterways,” Close said.

“These things are often used for just seconds and yet they last a lifetime in our environment. Many South Australian businesses have already moved away from single-use items and are embracing reusable and compostable items.

“We’ve built in lots of lead time for South Australian businesses and there’s a range of new programs to assist businesses transition. I encourage people to have their say on how best we apply these new bans.”

You can visit the ‘Your Say’ website here.