FAQs

The policy supports replacing single use items with a BYO reusable model, or by providing reusable items for patrons to hire or borrow. Trials to date show that a paid deposit scheme, refunded on return of items, to be an effective way of managing costs. 

Cardboard and paper foodware items, once used, are contaminated and unable to be recycled. These items will end up in landfill.

Most cardboard or paper products contain harmful chemicals, oils or plastics to enable them to contain food and drink products. However, these chemicals mean that the products can not be recycled or composted.

There are many products labelled as either 'home compostable' or 'commercially compostable'. Unfortunately, home compostable items may take many years to decompose, if at all. Commercial composting programs are inaccessible to the Tweed, with no suitable facilities available to receive these products. 

Further, if the purpose of compost is to add nutrients to the soil, do we really want to compost items that contain a variety of plastics, oils and chemicals, and provide no additional benefits to the compost? 

Single use items, in particular foodware items such as cups, plates, bowls and cutlery are targeted by the policy. The policy provides more detail, including plastic items already covered by NSW legislation, items banned by Tweed Shire Council (such as balloons and single use decorations) and additional single use items - plastic or otherwise - that are within policy scope. The policy also suggests recommended items to avoid where possible. 

Some blanket exemptions are available due to health and safety, accessibility and emergency reasons. Conditional exemptions may also be available, subject to approval. Please see the policy document for further information. 

Evidence may be requested to demonstrate compliance with this policy. Council may require evidence of compliance prior to issuing sponsorship funds, licence agreements or access to Council venues, facilities or land. Groups may be asked to show how they are improving over time to comply with the policy. This may include waste audits and waste management plans, implementation plans, communications materials, checklists, photographs and/or other items as agreed with Council.

The Implementation Guide provides further detail on proposed approach to implementing this policy in the Tweed. A phased approach will be adopted to allow organisers time to plan for and adapt to the new policy. The phased implementation will begin with Council operations, then Council sponsored activities, licenced events, markets, long term leases and lastly small-medium events and sports groups. 

A steering committee of relevant Council officers, together with representative external event coordinators, will be created to advise on recommended steps towards implementation.