GAWLER Council has backed a proposal to ban certain single-use plastics in South Australia.

On April 30, South Australia became the first state in the country to introduce legislation into Parliament to ban the use of single-use plastics, but its implementation will be delayed due to the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The State Government’s Single-use and Other Plastic Products (Waste Avoidance) Bill 2020, if passed, would see the end of distribution for plastic products such as straws, cutlery and beverage stirrers.

Gawler Mayor Karen Redman said council welcomed the introduction of a legislative framework to ban single-use plastic products.

“Council plays an important role in waste management with its subsidiary NAWMA through the provision municipal waste and resource recovery services, and always seeking to reduce waste to landfill,” she said.

“Councils also play a part in supporting the State Government in educating the community on responsible waste management. In fact council resolved in June 2019 to a total phase-out of the use of single-use plastics at council events and council-sponsored events, as well as to encourage the same aim for community-run events by 2020.

“Staff will aim to present a report to council once the Bill is passed.”

Minister for environment and water David Speirs said with COVID-19 restrictions having a significant impact on society, and in particular the hospitality industry, if the Bill passes Parliament, the State Government would delay its commencement.

“This will give businesses time to bounce back from the impacts caused by coronavirus restrictions before the ban comes into effect,” he said.

“This approach strikes an appropriate balance between the public’s desire for change and the needs of businesses.”

Meanwhile, Gawler Council is the first council in South Australia to declare a climate emergency.

“Council is working on developing a Climate Emergency Action Plan for the Town of Gawler,” Ms Redman said.

“The plan will take into consideration mitigation and adaptation strategies aligned with climate change.

“This includes council operations, supporting communities to reduce emissions where possible and engaging with stakeholders on the need to address the climate emergency.”