Single-use plastics will be banned and could be turned into bins, park benches and playground equipment under a policy endorsed by Maribyrnong council.
Councillors last week endorsed a policy to eliminate single-use plastic from council-owned buildings and sites and at council funded or endorsed events.
Councillor Anthony Tran told the meeting he had proposed a collaboration with Victoria University to turn single-use plastics into long-lasting products.
“They have, in my understanding, recently purchased a piece of equipment that allows them to turn these single-use plastics into these plastic bins, which can then be reused for more long-term purposes,” he said.
“Rather than just recycling them again into more plastic bottles, we can use them to help us in terms of creating park benches as well as playgrounds for kids.
“We’re basically taking the plastic out of the system for as long as possible and reusing them wherever and whenever we can.”
Under the policy, single-use plastic bags, cling wrap, cups, plates, bowls, straws, cutlery and take away food containers are not to be used, sold or distributed.
Single-use disposable cups and lids, balloons, plastic glitter, glow sticks and confetti are banned.
Bottled water is not to be provided, sold or distributed by the council, except for emergency responses or health and safety purposes. However, free access to water must be provided.
Event materials are to be reused where possible, including event signage and promotional banners.
Event organisers will be required to educate and guide staff and attendees on single-use plastic-free practices, including providing guidance documents and promoting reusable alternatives.
