Woolies to replace single-use plastic bags with paper and reusable options in WA

Australian supermarket Woolworths has planned to phase out its 15 cent plastic bags in Western Australia by next month, ahead of the state’s incoming bag ban this July.

Woolworths stores across the state will reduce the sale of reusable grocery plastic bags with Australian-made paper bags for both in-store and online shoppers.

Customers will be able to choose from three different carry bag options including its 20% Australian-made paper bag, 70% recycled paper bag and the brand’s own Bag for Good and folded fabric bag.

According to Woolworths state general manager for Western Australia, Karl Weber, the move will remove over 30 million plastic bags from circulation within the state.

“The vast majority of our customers already bring their own reusable bags to shop, which is the very best outcome for the environment, and we encourage customers to keep up the great work.”

Minister for Environment Reece Whitby said: “Western Australia has a strong track record on reducing single-use plastics in the environment, and was named the top jurisdiction in the country two years in a row by WWF Australia, for the work that is being done.”

A multi-million-dollar partnership with Australian manufacturer Detpak will increase the production of paper bags locally. The paper bags can hold up to 6kgs in weight and is certified by PEFC.

The change will be communicated via signage, radio, print advertising and email alerts to raise awareness and encourage patrons to bring their own reusable bags.

This article was first published by Inside Retail.