South Australia is now gearing up to be the first state with a ban on single-use plastics.

A prohibition on straws and cutlery, and other items have been the key issue addressed in a bold plan, announced today by SA Premier Steven Marshall.

In a Tweet posted this morning, Marshall commented that “SA has lead the nation in waste management,”. He then continues, “now we will lead the nation on single use plastics”.

This announcement follows a six-week consultation period, where the community was asked about their interest in the subject. The majority of consultation participants indicated an interest in Government intervention.

The legislation is set to be drafted later this year, after which it will be presented to Parliament in 2020.

In an interview with ABC News, Environment Minister David Speirs said the process will be lengthy. A “pilot program” will be established to test the viability of the ban.

“At first, we will look at products including plastic straws, cutlery and stirrers, with items such as takeaway polystyrene containers and cups next,” Speirs said.

Public interest in single-use plastics being banned highlights a growing trend of awareness around the damages they can cause. Though, South Australia has been ahead of the pack for decades.

For at least 10 years, single-use plastic bags have been banned in the state. Instead, reusable, biodegradable bags are on offer for a small charge.

Victoria is set to adopt a similar policy in November, with the campaign rollout currently happening.

“MORE TO COME,” Marshall concludes in his Tweet.

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