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Woolworths follows Coles in ditching single-use plastic tableware

(Source: Woolworths website)

Woolworths has announced that it will stop selling single-use plastic tableware to help reduce waste, after Coles eliminated plastic from its ranges in July.

Woolworths’ former plastic tableware stocks including cutlery, bowls, cups and plates have been replaced with sugarcane products, and other items made with FSC-certified paper or wooden materials. The range features more than 50 products, including items designed for parties or to appeal to kids.

The latest initiative targets eliminating about 2.1 million kilograms of plastic every year. Woolworths says it wants to offer sustainable options for customers and minimise the amount of plastic headed to landfills.

“Removing single-use plastic cutlery and other picnicware will not only cut plastic in landfill, but is the right thing to do for the health of our oceans and waterways where these items can unfortunately end up,” said James Hepworth, Woolworths Supermarkets commercial director for Everyday Needs.

“Along with this change, we’re offering customers an extended picnic range of more sustainable options made from materials like sugarcane pulp, bamboo, wood and paper.”

Besides retiring single-use plastic tableware, Woolworths has also put an end to plastic in other product categories including cotton tips, drinking straws and bags.

The supermarket chain has committed to make 100 per cent the brand’s packaging recyclable, compostable or reusable by the end of 2023.

“We’re committed to growing greener for our customers and their communities by increasing the sustainability of our range,” Hepworth added. “We thank our customers for their support as together we make this change today, for a better tomorrow.”

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