NSW Advances Next Phase of Plastics Ban to Tackle Waste and Protect Public Health

According to a recent announcement from the New South Wales (NSW) Government, the state is moving forward with a new phase of its Plastics Plan, aiming to phase out single-use and harmful plastics while addressing the growing waste crisis. The initiative was unveiled on the eve of National Recycling Week, marking another major step in NSW’s effort to reduce pollution and safeguard the environment.

According to the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA), plastics make up around 74% of litter in local waterways, while less than 16% of plastic waste is currently recycled. It is reported that without intervention, Greater Sydney could face a landfill shortage by 2030—a scenario that would put significant strain on households, councils, and businesses.

The NSW Plastics Plan 2.0, outlined by the government, will gradually phase out unnecessary and hard-to-recycle plastic products in stages, allowing businesses time to adjust while encouraging the adoption of reusable and recyclable alternatives. The government also plans to introduce Australia’s first “green” and “red” list of chemicals—identifying safe and restricted additives in plastic products to protect human health and the environment.

Key actions under the plan include phasing out plastic bread tags and pizza savers by 2027, eliminating non-compostable fruit and vegetable stickers by 2030, and introducing tethered caps for plastic bottles by the same year. It is also reported that takeaway food businesses will be required to accept reusable cups by 2028, while large food service chains must provide reusable cup options by 2030.

According to Environment Minister Penny Sharpe, “Microplastics are entering our bodies and polluting our oceans, killing wildlife. This plan moves NSW another step closer to eliminating these problematic items.” She added that the government is committed to supporting industries during the transition to sustainable alternatives.

The NSW Government indicated that the initiative was developed through extensive consultation with businesses, local councils, and environmental organizations to ensure the policy remains both practical and effective.

Jason Yat-Sen Li, Member for Strathfield, said the measures “strike the right balance to preserve our vibrant food culture while protecting the places we love,” adding that the reforms provide small businesses with a “clear and practical path” to reduce plastic waste.

From the industry side, Bill Heague, General Manager at Mars Food & Nutrition Australia, told reporters that the company welcomes the new plan. “we’re trialling new innovations like our paper-based MasterFoods Squeeze-On Tomato Sauce packs, which are recyclable and could eliminate around 190 tonnes of plastic from our value chain if we fully transition our portfolio,” he said. According to Heague, the transition period outlined by the government is crucial for businesses to research, develop, and scale new packaging technologies.

It is reported that the NSW Plastics Plan 2.0 will also drive investment in recycling infrastructure, expand the reusable products market, and create new opportunities for innovation. By aligning with other states and territories, NSW aims to provide regulatory consistency and long-term certainty for industry participants.

Analysts say the updated plan aligns with a global shift toward circular economy models, as governments worldwide tighten plastic and chemical regulations. Australia’s new initiative places NSW at the forefront of environmental policy innovation, potentially influencing future nationwide reforms in packaging and waste management.

Source: NSW Government

SUNSHINE Spotlight: NSW’s renewed Plastics Plan marks a key step toward a circular economy—balancing ambitious sustainability goals with a pragmatic transition for industry.