Sunshine Coast’s journey towards phasing out single-use plastics at council-managed facilities and council-run events will continue, following a report endorsed by council at its January Ordinary Meeting today (January 31).
Environment Portfolio Councillor Jenny McKay said council had already made significant progress when it came to minimising single-use plastics at our facilities and events.
“I’d like to raise the bar even further and encourage the phasing out of single-use plastics to be implemented at all council leased facilities, council supported events and activities held under a permit on council managed land,” Cr McKay said.
“We’ve been on this journey for many years.”
Sunshine Coast Council has been working proactively with the community to address the impacts of plastic on our natural environment.
This approach aligns with our vision to be Australia’s most sustainable region – healthy, smart, creative.
“Simple things like taking our own reusable water bottles, cups and bags with us when heading out and replacing plastic items with alternative products makes a big difference to our environment in the long term,” Cr McKay said.
“We’ve already seen great results. The team at Sunshine Coast Stadium saved a whopping 11,477 single-use plastic items between June and September 2018, simply by changing to compostable and biodegradable packaging at the canteen.
“I encourage the community and local businesses to get on-board to phase out single-use plastics.
“Council is here to support you. We’ve already identified opportunities to help our community adopt sustainable practices at events and when catering.
“If we work together, we’ll be better equipped to protect our beautiful Sunshine Coast.”
As part of the project, council will develop standardised conditions which will transition vendor and events permits so single-use plastics are phased out.
As well as continuing our regular beach clean-up initiatives, sustainability-focussed awareness campaigns such as the #BYOSunshineCoast partnership will continue.
Helium balloons are banned at council events, as is their intentional release across the region.
Through the Environment and Liveability Strategy, council has made a commitment to reduce waste generation and support the community to adopt sustainable living practices.
