Single-use plastics reduced in Bayswater and Bassendean since implementation of bans

BASSENDEAN and Bayswater councils have seen a significant reduction in single-use plastic after implementing bans at events earlier this year.

In March, Bassendean Council adopted a single-use plastic ban which urged stallholders to use biodegradable utensils and eco-friendly straws at all future Town events.

Bayswater Council banned the use of single-use plastics including balloons, plastic water bottles and straws at its premises and events in April.

Swan Council also adopted a practice that discouraged City staff and caterers from using single-use plastic at council functions and events in July.

Cockburn Council is currently looking to follow in the councils’ footsteps.

Town of Bassendean senior economic development officer William Barry said there was greater awareness and a reduction in the use of single-use plastic across the board.

“Stallholders have gone to varying levels of adapting and implementing change,” he said.

“Some now use all compostable and biodegradable containers and cutlery.

“Deroo Deleash has moved to only paper packaging their products and encouraging customers to bring their own bags and containers.”

Mr Barry said the six-month transition period was coming to an end and the Town expected vendors at the monthly Old Perth Road Markets would be “single-use plastic free”.

Bayswater Mayor Dan Bull said the City was working to reduce its environmental footprint by cutting down plastic at events, venues and buildings.

“While this won’t happen overnight, we’re already noticing a significant decrease in single-use plastics at our events, which has been great to see.

“The City is also encouraging the businesses and vendors who attend our events to consider using biodegradable products instead of plastic.

“The introduction of water tanks at the City’s larger events has been particularly successful.

“We offer reusable cups that are washed throughout the event, limiting the need for single-use water bottles.”