Victorian Member for Euroa Steph Ryan is offering free reusable shopping bags to people ahead of lightweight plastic bans.
From November 1, all single-use lightweight plastic shopping bags with a thickness of 35 microns or less will be banned, including bags made from degradable, biodegradable and compostable plastic.
Produce bags used for unpackaged food items such as fruit, meat and seafood, garbage bags and bin liners and dog waste and nappy bags will still be legal.
Ms Ryan said despite initial backlash and people struggling to adapt quickly, most had accepted the change to reusable.
‘‘In Victoria, about 10 per cent of all waste disposed of in landfill is plastic, so eliminating single-use plastic where we can is a small, but very practical way, we can reduce our environmental impact,’’ she said.
‘‘All other states and territories in Australia, except Victoria and NSW have already banned lightweight plastic shopping bags.
‘‘Anyone who wants a free reusable bag ahead of the ban is welcome to pop in or phone my office.’’
Ms Ryan’s office is at Bridge St, Benalla, or phone the office on 5762 1600 in order to have one posted.
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