Rockingham council backs plastics and balloon ban

The City of Rockingham is turning the tide on plastic, endorsing a new draft policy prohibiting traders from using single-use plastic and balloons at City events, and on it’s land and venues.

As part of a crackdown on plastic waste, the City council unanimously voted in favour of a new single-use plastics and balloons policy, along with a supporting Turn the Tide on Plastic guideline for the purpose of public advertising.

Under the policy, which was approved to go out for public consultation until April 10, all City operations, traders operating with a permit issued by the City, and events held on City land will be required to comply with the policy, by avoiding disposable items including serving materials and packaging, and terminating the organised release of balloons.

A 12-month transition period will apply to allow time for traders to use existing stock and to source suitable alternatives.

As part of the policy food and beverage providers will also be required to source reusable or compostable serving materials including plates, bowls, cups, lids, cutlery, straws and food containers.

The officer’s report identified that the widespread use, distribution and misuse of single-use plastics - particularly at events held on the foreshore - had a significant impact on local marine and coastal wildlife.

As a result, changes have been implemented to help protect Rockingham’s unique environment and ensure the City continued to be a place where the “coast comes to life”.

Councillor Deb Hamblin said while introducing a single-use plastics ban would not “save the planet”, it was a “positive step forward”.

Rockingham will join several other WA councils, including the City of Bayswater and towns of Bassendean and Cottesloe in working towards a plastic-free future.