First Aussie state capital bans single-use plastics

Hobart has become the first capital city in the nation to ban single-use plastics, including takeaway food containers and straws.

City of Hobart councillors voted on Monday night in favour of a by-law to support the ban and impose fines on those that don’t comply.

The by-law targets petroleum-based plastic containers, cups, cup lids, straws, utensils and packets used for sauces and other condiments.

“This will add to the way people perceive Hobart across the world as a city that cares about the environment and its people,” Councillor Bill Harvey, who moved the motion, told The Mercury on Tuesday.

But it won’t come into effect until late this year or early 2020, pending the outcome of a 21-day public consultation to be set in motion by the director of local government.

Environment Tasmania Director Philip Cocker said the ban was a small but significant step in environmental sustainability for the city.

“I am sure all Hobart businesses will be able to implement the by-law with positive effects on their businesses,” he said in a statement.