From November 2024, if you’re in New South Wales, Australia, you’ll be saying goodbye to those familiar paper plates and bowls often seen at kids' parties. These items have been popular for their convenience, but because they’re lined with plastic, NSW EPA is now taking a step forward to reduce plastic pollution and minimise exposure to harmful chemicals.
Why the Ban?
At first glance, focusing on plastic-lined paper plates and bowls might seem trivial. But the reality is that these items are everywhere, and they’re problematic. Although they look like paper or cardboard, they contain a thin plastic lining that prevents liquids from soaking through. Unfortunately, this plastic layer isn’t biodegradable, making recycling difficult, if not impossible.
This change follows a series of initiatives aimed at reducing unnecessary single-use plastics, and it’s especially relevant to party kits and similar items.
The ban also addresses growing concerns about the health impacts of plastic, particularly items that contain PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). PFAS are chemicals linked to health risks, and they persist both in the environment and in our bodies. They can transfer from paper tableware to food, ultimately entering our bodies when we consume that food.
So, What’s Changing?
Starting now, you won’t find plastic-lined paper plates and bowls in NSW’s stores, food courts, or takeaway businesses. This includes:
Takeaway paper or cardboard bowls (think of soup bowls or salad containers)
Printed or coloured paper ‘party’ plates and bowls
However, if you have leftover supplies at home, don’t worry – you’re still allowed to use them at private gatherings, parties, or for craft projects. The ban simply means that businesses and community events can no longer distribute them.
What Are the Alternatives?
Wondering what to use instead? Here are some alternative options that are both sustainable and accessible:
Reusable Plates: These are the best option for the environment. For every metric – whether it’s carbon emissions, water usage, or waste – reusables win. Our party kits make accessing reusable tableware easier, and it’s the most sustainable choice overall.
Single-Use Tableware Made from Palm Leaf or Sustainable Wood: If you can’t access reusable options, these are durable and fully compostable.
Sugarcane (Bagasse) Plates: Bagasse, a byproduct of sugarcane processing, can be moulded into plates and bowls which are compostable. These plates are sturdy, heat-resistant, and won’t absorb oil from foods even though there's no coating.
Wheat Bran Plates: These plates are biodegradable and, in some cases, even edible (they’re similar to very dry Weetabix). They’re relatively new but gaining popularity as demand for sustainable options grows. There are also rice husk plates with similar properties.
What About Compostable Plastics?
You might have heard about compostable or bio-plastics and wondered if they’re permitted. In NSW, even certified compostable plastic linings are not allowed on disposable tableware. This is because, despite being labeled "compostable," these plastics require specific industrial composting conditions that aren’t widely available. Most of these items don’t break down effectively in a typical landfill or home composting system.
Most countries choose to include bio-plastics in bans due to the risk of contaminating plastic recycling streams and that as litter bio-plastic still behaves in the same way as regular plastic (made from fossil fuels).
Are Other Countries Considering Similar Bans?
NSW’s decision aligns with a larger global trend, as other countries are also starting to take action. For example:
European Union: The EU has already implemented its Single-Use Plastics Directive, banning a variety of plastic products, including some plastic-coated tableware.
United States: Several states, including California and New York, have passed laws that restrict the use of PFAS in food packaging, which impacts disposable plates and bowls.
Canada: Canada is on a similar path, with plans to phase out single-use plastics nationwide, including plastic-lined paper items.
This global movement underscores how serious countries are about tackling plastic pollution, especially the “hidden” plastic in items we might not realise contain it.
Health Benefits of the Ban
One of the lesser-known reasons behind the ban on plastic-lined plates and bowls is to protect our health. Many of these items contain PFAS, often called “forever chemicals” because they don’t break down easily in the environment or our bodies. Studies have linked PFAS to various health issues, including hormone disruption, immune system impacts, and certain cancers. By banning these plastics, NSW is helping to reduce everyday exposure to these harmful substances.
What’s Next?
It’s likely that more states and countries will move in this direction over the next few years. As consumers, we can support these changes by choosing sustainable, reusable options and encouraging local businesses to make the switch too.
For families and parents, this can be a meaningful opportunity to show kids how we care for our planet. Choosing reusable plates, especially for parties where kids can see the impact, is a powerful way to drive behaviour change and make disposable paper plates a thing of the past.
