Byron Shire Council has prepared a Single-use Packaging and Materials Policy to remove single-use waste from its facilities, operations and open spaces.
Byron Shire is a local government area located in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, Australia. The draft policy aims to ban a variety of single-use products, including straws, plates, cups, and silverware. This contains things that are considered biodegradable or compostable.
It will be applicable to employees, council members, and anybody using or renting council chambers or other locations, such as markets and events.
Additionally, the usage of balloons and decorations like confetti and glitter in Council buildings, parks, and road reserves is prohibited under the policy.
Byron Shire Council resource recovery manager Danielle Hanigan said: “As an organisation working towards zero waste to landfill, we need to lead by example and avoid unnecessary waste streams, and that is what we are aiming to do with this policy.
“Items like disposable cups (especially coffee cups) will be phased out in Council buildings, which include our offices, pools, and sporting facilities.
“We want people to look at reusable alternatives which will result in less waste going to landfill, less emissions and importantly, less litter being washed into our waterways.
“This is also about behaviour change and showing the community what this change looks like, encouraging them to think about alternatives that are not only better for the environment but are much cheaper in the long run.”
The policy is intended to minimise plastic pollution and litter on the council’s beaches and open spaces. It will also help reduce landfills, preserve natural resources and lower carbon emissions in making, moving and disposing of waste.
Furthermore, the council will provide guidelines, funds, and infrastructure investment to support the policy and encourage the transition from single-use to reusable alternatives.