The state government has unveiled an ambitious initiative, Plastics Plan 2.0, aiming to significantly reduce plastic waste across New South Wales. Announced today, the plan includes a ban on several plastic products and the creation of a reuse-only precinct in Sydney’s Central Business District by late 2027.

Starting next year, the initiative will roll out over the following years, targeting a 60% reduction in litter by 2030. This effort aligns NSW with other Australian states and territories that are taking action against plastic waste.

Among the everyday items set to be phased out in NSW are plastic bags with handles, plastic pizza savers, and even the small stickers found on fruits and vegetables. These changes will encourage residents to adopt more sustainable practices.

Additionally, the release of helium balloons will be prohibited beginning next year. This measure will align NSW with states like Victoria and Queensland, which have already implemented similar bans. The decision is driven by environmental concerns, as these balloons frequently end up in waterways, posing a threat to wildlife that may ingest them or become entangled.

This is because they often end up in waterways and endanger animals who swallow them or become caught in them.

Another controversial measure set to be implemented in 2030 is that lids to drinks below 1.25 litres will have to be tethered.

This means they will not detach even after the lid is opened, and is similar to what is seen in many European countries already.

NSW has already banned several plastic products, including plastic takeaway cutlery, plastic straws and lightweight plastic bags.

The new initiative adds to this and will see a broader requirement for businesses to reuse material or to make their single-use packaging recyclable.

She said businesses would be supported through the changes.

“Microplastics are entering our bodies and plastic is polluting our environment and oceans, killing our wildlife,” she said.

“Our plan has carefully considered actions we need to take to protect the environment and human health, while also considering how we can support industry to transition to recyclable or reusable alternatives.”

General manager of Mars Food and Nutrition Australia Bill Heague said his company was already embracing the changes, but said it could not be an overnight endeavour.

”In order to adopt more sustainable packaging without impacting negatively on the consumer’s experience, businesses like ours need time to research, develop, test and scale up new packaging solutions,” he said.