Denmark bans single-use plastic from Shire events

The Shire of Denmark has voted to ban single-use plastic items, including plastic cutleries, balloons and plastic straws, from Shire-funded events.

Denmark councillors voted to pass the proposed Sustainable Events Policy final draft that also includes a nine-month community transitional period.

The draft policy follows the Town of Bassendean and City of Fremantle councils’ voting to ban all single-use plastic items at all local government-run events.

In her report to the council, Shire of Denmark sustainability officer Donna Sampey said recycling costs would be the major expense involved in implementing the policy.

“Given the Shire does not currently provide public recycling bins at most of its reserves and facilities, the main cost implication is associated with the collection and processing of recyclable materials,” the report said.

“It would be the responsibility of the event organiser, whether that be the Shire or community, to provide the relevant quantity of bins and bear any cost related to disposal.”

The Shire has also agreed to not implement any financial penalty for any non-compliance.

Events with more than 300 people could also request to be exempted from the policy in order to reduce nuisance.

It has been recommended that the Shire review the policy after the nine-month transitional period and apply further amendments if required.