South Australia is set to be the first Australian state to implement a ban on soy sauce fish containers starting September 1. This move also includes the prohibition of plastic straws and cutlery attached to food or drinks, non-compostable stickers for fruits and vegetables, and prepackaged meal cups and bowls. These changes are part of a broader initiative to eliminate single-use plastics, which already includes a range of items such as grocery bags, stirrers, and food containers.
Environment Minister Susan Close highlighted the significant environmental impact of these fish-shaped containers, commonly used for soy sauce in takeaway sushi. She noted their ubiquity and the fact that they can easily contribute to litter, lasting for decades in the environment. Due to their small size, these containers often evade recycling processes and end up in landfills or contribute to microplastic pollution if discarded carelessly.
Marine scientist Nina Wootton from the University of Adelaide shared her observations on the prevalence of these containers on beaches, emphasising their frequent appearance in environmental clean-ups. She pointed out the challenges consumers face in avoiding single-use plastic when dining out, arguing that the ban will help reduce reliance on these convenience items.
Following South Australia’s lead, New South Wales is contemplating similar measures, with a proposal in consideration to phase out plastic sauce containers by 2030 and ensure their recyclability. Tasmania is also assessing the possibility of banning these much-disdained containers, though no draft legislation has been introduced yet. Meanwhile, Queensland has already implemented bans on various single-use plastics, and Western Australia is extending its restrictions to include non-compostable plastic bags for fresh produce.
Australia aims to solidify a legally-binding global plastics treaty, joining over 175 countries in efforts to curb plastic pollution that threatens oceans and ecosystems. Federal Environment Minister Murray Watt expressed commitment to this initiative, aiming for significant reductions in plastic waste and a cleaner environment for future generations. The approach underscores the importance of collaborative global efforts to tackle the growing plastic crisis, which is projected to see production and consumption triple by 2060.