Plastic pollution is one of the state’s biggest challenges, making up about 74 per cent of the litter found in waterways. With less than 16 per cent of plastic waste currently recycled, most of it ends up in landfill — space that Greater Sydney may run out of by 2030 unless urgent action is taken to address waste generation.
To tackle this growing problem, the government has released the next stage of its NSW Plastics Plan, which focuses on removing unnecessary and hard-to-recycle plastics from daily use. It aims to give businesses enough time to adjust while still pushing for meaningful change that reduces waste and protects the environment.
The phase-outs will be introduced gradually, helping industry find suitable alternatives without major disruption. The government says this shift will not only reduce landfill pressure but also encourage new investment in recycling infrastructure and reusable products.
In an Australian first, the plan will also introduce “green” and “red” lists of chemicals allowed or banned in plastic items. Harmful chemicals that pose risks to human health and the environment will be identified for phase-out, especially when safer options already exist.
Key actions in the NSW Plastics Plan 2.0 include:
Phasing out plastic bread tags and pizza savers from late 2027
Ending the use of non-compostable fruit and vegetable stickers by 2030
Requiring tethered lids on plastic bottles by 2030
Ensuring takeaway businesses accept reusable cups by 2028
Requiring large food service businesses to provide reusable cup options by 2030
Phasing out small single-use condiment containers like soy sauce fish bottle by 2030
Redesigning common takeaway containers to ensure they can be safely recycled
Regulating harmful chemical additives in plastic packaging
Banning helium balloon releases statewide
These steps build on earlier bans of lightweight plastic bags, straws, stirrers and single-use cutlery. The government says it will continue working closely with councils, businesses and community groups to ensure a smooth transition.
NSW also aims to stay aligned with other states to provide consistency for industry and support a cleaner, more sustainable future.