Organisations representing small food and drink service businesses are ‘shooting their industry in the foot’ with their opposition to the NSW Plastic Reduction Bill that passed  Parliament last week, the Boomerang Alliance of 56 green NGOs said today. 

“They don’t appear to realise that as more and more research reveals potential health impacts from plastic in humans and public alarm spreads, it’s not a sustainable business model to sell a product contaminated by plastic. One cup of coffee in a single use plastic cup (or one with plastic lining) releases thousands of microplastics,” said Jeff Angel, Director of the Alliance. 

“Frankly, we think the NSW law should go further as it still allows recyclable single-use cups which could still release plastic or other chemicals into a drink. Now the Bill has passed, the  regulation which will detail what and where the law applies will be crucial, and we look  forward to further consultation.” 

“There are already plenty of small drink and food businesses offering or accepting reusable cups and that have a financially healthy operation. It is these outlets that will attract more  customers as plastic pollution becomes an even bigger issue.” 

“We are also particularly keen to see a quick rollout of reusable cups at major stadiums and  sports venues.” 

“The scare campaign being run by the Liberal Opposition and allied industry associations should not distract government from implementing this important environmental and health measure, which is in the best interests of all stakeholders,” Mr Angel said.  

Further information: Jeff Angel info@boomerangalliance.org.au