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Which bags will be banned?

The plastic bag ban will prohibit retailers from providing single-use, lightweight polyethylene plastic bags (35 microns or less).

Check with your supplier if you are unsure about the composition or thickness of your bags.

ACT Plastic Bag Ban

What about degradable bags?

A range of bags claim to be degradable in different conditions. Some degradable bags are made partly or wholly of polyethylene. Only compostable biodegradable bags that meet Australian Standard AS 4736-2006 are excluded from the proposed ban. These bags are usually made of some form of starch or other compostable material.

Which bags are allowed?

‘Barrier’ bags, the type dispensed from a roll, typically for items such as loose fruit and vegetables

Fruit and veg bags

Heavier retail (or boutique) bags typically used by clothing and department stores

Sturdy bags designed for multiple use such as ‘green’ bags

Sturdy bag designed for multiple use

Compostable biodegradable bags that state they meet Australian Standard AS 4736-2006

Biodegradable bag

Paper bags

Brown paper bag

 




  • Page last updated: 10 April 2012

ACT Government
Canberra Connect