ACT Single-Use Plastic Ban: What you need to know

Plastic is an incredibly useful material, but in the wrong place, plastic – particularly single-use plastic – can create challenges for our environment and waste management systems.

Community concerns about plastic waste is at an all-time high. Internationally, across Australia and the ACT, there is community pressure and an expectation that governments and companies must do more to address the issues and challenges associated with single-use plastic.

Through the phasing out single-use plastics discussion paper, the ACT Government sought to consult broadly with industry, businesses and the community about ways to avoid and reduce our consumption of single-use plastics. Feedback from the community, business and industry have shown Canberrans are committed to sustainability and want action on single-use plastic products.

On 30 March 2021, the ACT Legislative Assembly passed the Plastic Reduction Bill 2020. This makes ACT one of the first Australian jurisdictions to pass laws to reduce single-use plastic waste. By shifting to reusable, recyclable or compostable alternatives, we are ensuring better environmental outcomes for the ACT.

The below single-use plastic products are prohibited from sale, supply or distribution within ACT from 1 July 2021.

Sending the early signal to the market on these items allows time for transitional arrangements to commence prior to the legislation taking effect. More information about the roll-out, fines for non-compliance, and alternatives to single-use plastics, go to: act.gov.au

Our team is ready to help you ease into this transition. For more information regarding the above alternatives, please get in touch with us.

Australian-made drives community resilience

2021 has marked a fresh start for a host of businesses which are finally back operating.

From a old-new pub, to cafes and restaurants, accommodation providers, there was plenty of cheer as businesses (re)opened their doors across the Border River region after months of lockdowns.

One of the businesses to throw its door open was Flock. Located in the small town of Mungindi, their mission is built on creating a welcoming place for a coffee with the hope of reigniting community spirit.

Now the name Mungindi may ring a bell in your mind for a number of reasons.

You may have heard it in the news of late due to it being hit hard by flood waters after years of drought; waters so high that it was blocked off from surrounding towns including its neighbour and nearest services hub, Moree.

You may also know Mungindi because last year much of their main street was tragically burned down, meaning the border town was left without a grocery store in the height of COVID restrictions.

The quintet is excited to welcome their local community in their cosy space, while also leaving a positive community footprint.

Australian manufacturing has great strengths in playing an increasing role in building a resilient food and beverage sector. In the face of supply chain disruptions, the ladies at Flock explored local options.

Keen to promote local businesses, they reached out to us expressing their interest in our locally manufactured packaging products. It was a joy to work with them on their custom printed paper cups and lids and food containers.

Flock is a physical reminder to Mungindi locals and neighbouring communities that through all the tough times, together, they’ve got this. Each coffee is more than just a product; It’s about connection and togetherness.

By choosing locally made products, Australian consumers can not only support our economy, but also reduce transportation to a local level, and help improve recovery rates and develop our own recycling industry.

Made from sustainably sourced paper, Castaway cups are manufactured in our own facilities right here in Australia, and are recyclable within existing collection streams.

#RunFest Port Macquarie goes plastic-free

This weekend saw 3,000 runners and walkers take to the streets of Port Macquarie participating in the 10th anniversary event. #RunFest Port Macquarie is held annually on the stunning NSW Mid-North Coast.

But, this year, the marathon had an environmentally friendly twist, in the shape of plastic-free paper cups handed out to runners in place of plastic water bottles.

Runners had to stay hydrated for each of the below events:

Saturday 6th March

• The Team Holborow 3km Kids Fun Run
• IMF #RunSweatInspire on the 3 km route

Sunday 7th March

• Treble Breakwall Buster – half marathon plus 10km, plus 5km
• The Rydges Half Marathon, on the 21.1 km route
• The Athletes Food 10km Fun Run
• The Chop ‘n’ Chill Family 5km Fun Run

But the environmental impact of the hundreds of plastic water bottlers needed for these events is concerning.

Organisers hoped that by handing out the plastic-free cups at drinks stations – they would cut down the number of plastic waste significantly, and demonstrate that sustainable packaging alternatives can be used at a larger scale.

That’s the reason why Australian Castaway food packaging manufacturer was brought on board. Instead of traditional single-use plastic cups, runners were handed plastic-free cups.

Made in HACCP certified facilities, these cups have been designed to be more sustainable than ever! Made from a water-based dispersion coating, these cups are certified industrially compostable – that means they will decompose after 180 days in commercial composting conditions (if not recycled). That’s compared to the 450 years it takes for a plastic bottle to break down! – A large proportion ending up in landfill or in the oceans.

In another step to help reduce the festival’s environmental impact, bins will be serviced and collected by J.J. Richards. Collected cups will thenbe recycled to help form a “closed loop” system – Recycled cups are returned to a reprocessing plant to become new paper products.

The use of easily renewable, recyclable and industrially compostable plastic-free cups to replace some plastic is a win-win situation. Last year, these cups were trialled for the first time to try reduce the volume of plastic bottles used and discarded along the track. Over 10,000 plastic-free paper cups were placed at multiple drinks stations.

The event director, Kevin Chilvers, said that the “changes and the trials we’ve introduced last year and this year have the potential to change how mass participation events are delivered in the future”.

To learn more about our plastic-free paper cups, and how to minimize the use of plastic click the link below.

Sources:

www.portmacquarierunningfestival.com.au
www.jjrichards.com.au

Tackling the plastic challenge

Plastic has transformed our everyday lives. But the volume of plastic, and its long lifespan, makes it one of our biggest waste problems.
Castaway® Food Packaging supports the single-use plastic bans that are being discussed and enforced around Australia and New Zealand. The Australian Government is taking action through the National Plastic Plan. Their goal is to reduce plastic waste and pollution, and fast track industry’s use of more sustainable product design.

There is currently no overarching federal legislation in regard to reducing plastic use. Yet, the momentum to stop plastic pollution continues to grow.
The challenge is how do we channel it into real system change. Here’s the latest state of play with plastic bans for each state and territory around Australia.

South Australia’s was the first state to ban on single-use plastics. Legislation
passed in 2020 with a staged ban commencing 1 March 2021, to be completed
1 March 2022. Products included in the ban:

1 March 2021: Plastic straws, stirrers and cutlery, as well as problematic bioplastic versions of these items.
1 March 2022: Expanded polystyrene (EPS) foodservice items (cups, bowls, plates and containers) and all oxo-degradable products
SA Government Replace the Waste website
SA Government Single-use and Other Plastic Products (Waste Avoidance) Bill 2020

The ACT Government first flagged its intention to ban single-use plastic in early
2019. Legislation is expected to be passed soon with a single-use plastics ban
introduced on 1 July 2021. Products proposed for the ban:

1 July 2021: Plastic cutlery, stirrers, expanded polystyrene (EPS) food and
beverage containers.
ACT Government Plastic Reduction Bill 2020

Queensland passed legislation to ban a selection of single-use plastics on 11 March 2021, to be effective on 1 September 2021. Products included in the ban:

1 September 2021: Plastic straws, stirrers, cutlery, plates, bowls, expanded
polystyrene (EPS) cups and containers. Compostable plastics that are certified home (AS 5810) and industrially (AS 4736) compostable to the Australian standards are exempt from the ban.
QLD Government Plastic Pollution Reduction Plan
QLD Government Waste Reduction and Recycling (Plastic Items) Amendment Bill 2020

Hobart City Council was the first council to pass legislation to ban single-use plastics at takeaway food retailers in March 2020. The City now has a by-law that bans single-use plastics at takeaway food retailers, which will be enforceable
from 1 July 2021.

1 July 2021: All plastic single-use takeaway packaging. Compostable plastics that are certified home (AS 5810) and industrially (AS 4736) compostable to the Australian standards are exempt from the ban.
Hobart City Council Single-Use Plastics By-Law

Legislation expected to be passed in February 2022 with a single-use plastics ban introduced in 2023. Products proposed for the ban:

February 2023: Plastic straws, cutlery, plates, drink stirrers, expanded
polystyrene (EPS) food and drink containers, and plastic cotton bud sticks.
Currently, there is no mention of compostable plastics.
Tackling plastic pollution – We’re banning problematic single-use plastics in Victoria

The WA container deposit scheme Container for Change was implemented on 1 October 2020. The Plan for Plastics has been drafted and is expected to be tabled by 2023. Products proposed for the ban:

By 2023: Plastic straws, stirrers, cutlery, plates, expanded polystyrene (EPS) food containers, heavyweight plastic bags and helium balloon releases. Position on compostable plastics is currently being reviewed.
WA Government Single-use plastic discussion paper
WA Government Plan for Plastics website

The New South Wales remains the only stat to have not legislated a ban on single-use plastic shopping bags. Meanwhile, the NSW Government is seeking feedback on the future plastics in New South Wales and a range of options that
will help shape the development of how we manage waste over the next 20 years.

NSW Government Cleaning Up Our Act lays all the groundwork for helping
NSW lead the way in tackling the plastic challenge.

Following the successful phase out of single-use plastic shopping bags, the NZ Government has plans to phase out more single-use and problematic plastics to reduce waste and protect the environment through a consultation document
called Reducing the impact of plastic on our environment. Products proposed for the ban:

By January 2023: All polyvinyl chloride (PVC) food and beverage packaging, some polystyrene food and beverage packaging, and all oxo-degradable plastic products
By January 2025: All remaining polystyrene food and beverage packaging, all expanded (EPS) packaging
NZ Government National Plastic Plan

Our team is well placed to help you navigate the ever-changing food-service landscape. For more information, please get in touch with us.

New Envirocutlery Combo Pack

Product features Sturdy and sanded to a smooth finish, these wooden utensils are comfortable to use. Made from sustainably sourced FSC certified birchwood, our Envirocutlery range provides a sustainable alternative to single-use plastic, and can be home composted after use.

Ideal for all catering events A great zero-waste alternative to single-use plastic cutlery, while having your lunch break, being on the road or camping, this set is the perfect solution where plastic isn’t an option. GREAT FOR: • Street food stalls • Festivals & special events • Cafes & restaurants • Private & corporate functions • Picnics • Hospitals

Legislation changes Regulations for the use of single-plastics are driving the demand for more sustainable alternative products. In South Australia, incoming legislation will see a single use plastic ban, including the immediate ban, which covers items such as plastic straws and cutlery. While many other states all have current policies or consultations underway on proposals to phase out certain single-use plastics, awareness about the persistent presence and threat of microplastics in the environment has also grown significantly over the past few years. Microplastics are small plastic pieces less than fine millimetres long that cause significant damage to natural habitats and wildlife. Be part of the solution The existing range includes: forks, knifes, table spoons, teaspoons, and chopsticks – giving you the flexibility to pick the right cutlery to accommodate your menu. Eco-friendly cutlery and dinnerware are in high demand among commercial facilities. Aided by the high degree of sanitisation offered by single-use products, this factor has increased the demand for these products in both cafes, restaurants, supermarkets and hospitals. Making this switch to Envirocutlery combo pack is a practical and easy move as it comes without the feeling of making any extra effort to be zero-waste. Made from uncoated birchwood fibre, you can simply compost the utensils after use, and the paper can be disposed via your recycling bin.

Get ready for Summer!

Plastics have become a controversial subject when it comes to food packaging, however in the right circumstances they are a necessary part of our lives. How we choose to utilise them is the key to a sustainable future.

Many plastics are made from PET (polyethylene terephthalate) – a strong, durable material that is used for soft drink bottles, food containers and protein trays.
PET is generally considered a “safe” plastic, as it does not contain BPA (bisphenol A) an industrial chemical used to make certain plastics and resins. BPA, in the presence of heat, can leach a toxic metalloid into food and beverages.
PET is also a highly recyclable plastic material. That means those bottles and containers can be fully recycled into an rPET (polyethylene terephthalate) product. And they’re not down-graded to a park bench; they return suitable for food usage, in such ways as drink cups. rPET products are lightweight, affordable, shatter resistant, resealable and, most important of all, are again easily recyclable.

Our EcoSmart products contain at least 50% recycled content, and are recyclable within our current infrastructure – creating an opportunity to transform waste into a valuable resource. This means there’s less waste going into landfill, and the plastic returns into the recycle loop to provide further use for a second, third and even ninth time.
This is where the circular economy comes in. In a circular economy, we keep resources for as long as possible, extract the maximum value from them whilst in use, then recover and regenerate products and materials at the end of each product life.
The circular economy is an alternative to the traditional linear economy.

By reducing the amount of fossil fuel resources, rPET products have a lower carbon footprint than virgin plastics, divert material from landfill and can themselves be recycled.
Our Eco-smart food containers are made using 50% Australian postconsumer waste. By making the switch to products using recycled materials.

This initiative supports the recycling economy and aligns with the APCO 2025 packaging targets by utilising recycled materials and being widely recyclable in Australia and New Zealand.
We are proud to be working towards the Australian Packaging
Covenant (APCO) 2025 Packaging Targets.
1. We strive to design our packaging to be fully reusable, recyclable or
compostable
2. We strive to use 50% of recycled contents in our plastic packaging
3. We strive to eliminate problematic and unnecessary packaging
through design, innovation or introduction of alternatives

South Australia passes single-use plastic ban

Congratulations to South Australia – leading out with the first legislation passed in Australia to ban single use, problematic and unnecessary plastic packaging.

This week South Australia became the first state to ban single-use plastic items like straws, cutlery and stirrers from early 2021.With other Australian states are looking at similar initiatives, with Queensland recently committing to phasing out the problematic single-use plastics by July 2021 and the Australian Capital Territory anticipated to bring out a similar bill this year, and New South Wales and Western Australia have completed public consultation in this area.

South Australia has long been a leader in waste management and sustainable packaging reform, being the first state in Australia to ban the bag back in 2009 and first to implement a container deposit scheme. They too are looking to further extend the legislation – utilising a staged approach to phase out other single-use plastic items over several years.

South Australian Minister for Environment and Water David Speirs said in a media release there has been strong feedback to see action on single-use plastics.

“There has been significant community and industry support for swift action on single-use plastic products with many households and businesses across the state already taking steps to remove them,” said Minister Speirs.

“Our legislation at first bans single-use plastic items like straws, cutlery and beverage stirrers and outlines a framework for adding more items in the future. However, with COVID-19 restrictions still impacting on society and in particular the hospitality industry, we will delay the commencement of the legislation.

“This will give businesses time to bounce back and properly prepare before the ban comes into effect in early 2021. This approach strikes an appropriate balance between the public’s desire for change and the needs of businesses.”

Transitioning away from single-use plastic products can take a range of forms – from reducing or removing use of a product, or looking for sustainable alternatives.

SA has passed laws to ban single-use plastic products — the first state in Australia to do so
The State Government says the new rules will be enforced in 2021 due to the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic
It says the ban on straws, cutlery and beverage stirrers could be extended to include other products
With South Australia taking a strong stance on sustainable packaging, and other states shortly to follow, contact us for any help with your sustainability goals.

Alternatively, you can download our Home Compostable brochure below.

Castaway Expands Its Enviroboard® Range

Market Outlook

There’s no denying food delivery apps such as UberEats or Menulog are popular, and that the demand for takeaway food is growing at a rapid pace across Australia.

In fact, the Eating Out in Australia publication found Australians are spending a staggering $1.6 billion each year on takeaway and a daily average of $4.5 million. This means that, on average, about half of Australian households have at least one person ordering takeaway food everyday.

Average spend on takeaways per person in 2019

Enviroboard^® – a more sustainable choice

Combining sustainable design with exceptional performance, this new expansion to the company’s Enviroboard^® range was developed in response to the growing demand of food operators for delivery and takeaway packaging.

The Enviroboard^® existing range includes food clams, plates, trays, and cutlery – offering a more sustainable replacement for conventional plastic and polystyrene takeaway containers. One of Castaway’s key consideration for the Enviroboard^® range expansion was to ensure its new packaging designs reflected the sustainable ethos behind its brand.

The Enviroboard^® new containers are made using sugarcane pulp – a rapidly renewable resource and a by-product of the sugarcane production, while the matching lids are made from at least 50% post-consumer recycled PET.

Eating starts with the eyes

Food packaging and food presentation is a big part of the customer experience for quick service restaurants. The challenge is to deliver food that looks and tastes as good as it does in the restaurant. It is important that food operators choose packaging that secures, protects and promotes the contents perfectly.

Using a packaging that helps preserve that freshly-made appearance and maintain the temperature is key – this can be achieved with Enviroboard^® new containers and leak-proof lids.

Enviroboard^® – Here to deliver

At Castaway, we understand that the value of your products and services depends on the packaging it comes in, and hence we are committed to delivering only the best to all our customers.

Enviroboard® containers are suitable for hot and cold food. This will help reach a wider variety of food operators including retailers, restaurants, cafes, food trucks, festivals, etc

By using sugarcane bagasse, which has no taste, odour or harmful additives, the packaging is microwavable and ovenable, and maintains taste and flavour at any time.

Made of sugarcane bagasse – the dry residue left after sugarcane fibre has been pressed for juice, these containers are home compostable, and will naturally degrade into a nutrient rich compost without leaving any toxic residue.

Bagasse is naturally grease and moisture resistant, and allows the packaging to retain liquids and food for a longer period of time while the lids prevent any spillage in transit.

With the secure lids, this provides the perfect takeaway solution, reducing your need for other packaging items, while saving you storage space – great for quick-service and takeaway outlets.

Lids are made from at least 50% post-consumer recycled PET (rPET) and offer optimum visibility, which is a plus for presentation – making them ideal for food delivery services and takeaway.

Available in 4 different sizes, the new Enviroboard^® containers come in both a round and rectangular.

Natural | Ø 200 x 40 mm
CA-EPK750

Natural | Ø 200 x 65 mm
CA-EPK1150

Clear | Ø 200 x 27.4 mm
CA-EPKLID

Enviroboard® Rectangle Containers 750 ml

Natural | 220 x 135 x 43 mm
CA-ERC750

Enviroboard® Rectangle Containers 1000 ml

Natural | 220 x 135 x 61 mm
CA-ERC1000

Enviroboard® Round Containers rPET Lid Rectangle

Clear | 225 x 135 x 25 mm
CA-ERCLID

A message your customers will appreciate

Make the switch to planet-friendly packaging today by choosing Enviroboard^® containers. Your customers will appreciate your sustainable choice. You can read more about the Enviroboard^® range at castaway.com.au.

BRKFST found the perfect bowl with EcoSmart®

BRKFST’ homemade breakfast bowl, an early pioneer in the small batch world, has inspired so many others. After years of sharing her grandparents’ recipes with their valued customers at local farmers’ markets on the Sunshine Coast, BRKFST are proud to be taking their operations to the next level.

Family tradition, new culinary trends and utilising the freshest seasonal ingredients make BRKFST a true taste experience. While the family-owned business now has a wider product selection, the heart of their missions is the same: They produce delicious and naturally healthy meals that exceed customers’ desire to lead an environmentally-conscious lifestyle.

CHALLENGE

Since its foundation, BRKFST has always been concerned about environmental issues and continues to take steps in reducing their environmental impact. Katie, BRKFST owner was looking for a packaging that is strong, durable and recyclable. With a menu of seasonal choices ranging from wheat free, dairy free and gluten free options, the snacks are a slam dunk when it comes to taste. But Katie wanted to feel as good about her packaging as she does the product inside.

SOLUTION

To keep up with the growing popularity of convenience breakfast options, BRKFST has stopped doing markets, expanded its range and focused on wholesale channels.

Castaway® worked with BRKFST, presenting a range of takeaway packaging solutions. After having tested multiple packaging options, BRKFST settled on EcoSmart® bowls pretty quickly.

The containers are made of 30% recycled PET plastic, and are recyclable. Being crystal clear, the bowls offer stunning presentation for supermarket shelves, café and deli counters, event catering, corporate delivery, etc.

BRKFST Quote

_{Sizes available range from 8 oz (227 ml) to 48 oz (1364 ml), the bowls are ideal for merchandising and serving cold food while making eating on-the-go easier.}

_{The bowls offer secure transport for both caterers and restaurant operators to deliver to their customers. They remain intact even after a day or two later after use.}

IMPACT

Katie believes we eat with our eyes, so she wanted to use the fresh local fruits backed with organic grains and seeds to sell her product. Also wanting her branding to be as visible and memorable as her creations, the round-shaped lids offer her a graphic area to promote the brand. Made from high clarity PET, EcoSmart® bowls can be refrigerated, and have an important element of design that enhances the look and freshness of your products while inspiring impulse buys.

Today, BRKFST bowls are sold in roughly 80 cafes, espresso bars and food stores between Noosa and South Brisbane. Our customers can eat the meal, and recycle the bowls through existing co-mingled recycling systems*, for a cleaner end-of-life.

_{Round stickers are ideal for customising products with a company logo, tag line, or other information.}

8 Ways To Welcome Chinese New Year

On Saturday 25 January, the annual celebrations for the Chinese New Year officially begin. Food plays an important role, with many dishes eaten for symbolic purposes. Some foods, such as spring rolls and dumplings, are consumed for luck and hopes for the prosperous year ahead. Other dishes, such as rice balls, are eaten to symbolise family and togetherness during this festive period.

Here are 8 lucky packaging you can use to attract luck this coming Chinese New Year.