By Alesha Capone
Single-use plastics have been banned at Zoos Victoria’s three sites, including Werribee Open Range Zoo.
The sale and use of single-use plastic bottled water, soft drinks, straws and plastic bags was banned at the zoo properties at the start of this month.
In addition, from June 1, the zoo properties will have a new three-bin waste system available to the public, divided into organics, comingled and soft-plastics, such as single-use food wrappers.
Soft plastics will be recycled in Victoria through an arrangement where Zoos Victoria will buy back products made from the plastics it recycles.
The efforts are part of a program aimed at cutting to zero the amount of rubbish from zoo visitors which is sent to landfill.
Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio described the program as “a great outcome for the environment and builds on the work our zoos already do to protect marine wildlife and promote conservation”.
“We’re investing in initiatives that maximise recycling and reduce the amount of material that goes to landfill – it’s fantastic to see Zoos Victoria taking strong leadership to help achieve that goal,” Ms D’Ambrosio said.
