From 1 July 2023, the sale and manufacture of many single-use plastic products have been banned, restricted or phased out.

• Drinking straws
• Cutlery
• Bowls, trays and platters without lids
• Produce bags used to pack fresh fruit and vegetables
• Produce labels.

The ban applies where items are sold or supplied for free, and where they are provided individually or in packets. Compostable or ‘plant-based’ plastic alternatives are also banned for all items, except produce labels.

Alternatives include reusable items such as metal cutlery and straws, reusable containers and cups. Many supermarkets are offering reusable produce bags or paper bags.

1 July is also the start of Plastic Free July – a global movement that shares solutions so we can all take action and reduce plastic pollution.

Shifting away from single-use plastics will help reduce plastic waste, improve our recycling systems and protect our environment.

Image: Auckland Council