Global compostable packaging leader, BioPak, announced a suite of new online resources designed to assist businesses and consumers in South Australia (SA) and Western Australia (WA) as they prepare for the latest stages of single-use plastic bans.
The bans, set to take effect on September 1, mark Stage 4 for SA and Stage 2 for WA, the company said in a media release.
The newly launched resources aim to help businesses identify which plastic products will be prohibited under the new regulations and offer certified compostable alternatives that meet compliance standards.
Among the solutions highlighted by BioPak are their BioCane lids for paper bowls and containers, touted as a sustainable alternative to the commonly used clear plastic takeaway containers.
The company also promotes plant fibre lids for ice cream, emphasizing them as the only viable option for ice cream delivery services.
In South Australia, businesses will need to transition to plant-fibre coffee cup lids as the state phases out all plastic lids and plastic-lined coffee cups.
Sushi restaurants in both states will also need to adapt, with BioPak providing plant fibre alternatives and introducing FSC-certified paper trays to replace the soon-to-be-banned clear and black-based bento boxes.
Gary Smith, CEO of BioPak, expressed the company’s commitment to supporting businesses through the transition.
“We have worked hard on creating a range of products and resources that aim to remove the overwhelm and guesswork when it comes to navigating the latest round of single-use plastic bans for South Australia and Western Australia,” he said.
Smith emphasised that BioPak’s certified compostable products are not only compliant with the new regulations but also cost-effective.
“Our BioCane Lids, by way of example, are half the price of paper and are at a similar price point to plastic. This information is clearly outlined on our online resource page and throughout our website.”
Smith added, “Our goal is to dispel the myth that sustainable means excessively expensive, providing a viable solution that doesn’t hit the hip pocket of cafe owners, restaurants, and business owners.”
BioPak’s recommended compostable products for the upcoming bans include a variety of plant fibre and paper-based alternatives tailored to the specific needs of businesses in SA and WA.
These include aqueous/PLA-lined cups with PLA and plant fibre lids, plant fibre lids for ice cream cups, and all-board/sugarcane takeaways, among others.
