An emblematic component commonly accompanying sushi meals has been prohibited in South Australia to combat the usage of single-use plastics.
Eateries in the area are advised to seek eco-friendly alternatives to the fish-shaped soy sauce containers. Starting September 1, these small dispensers often included in takeout meals will be gradually phased out.
This directive is part of existing legislation that banned plastic carrier bags, straws, and cutlery in September 2023. Authorities highlighted that the plastic fish containers are too small for recycling facilities and frequently end up in water sources, being mistaken for food by marine animals.
The latest measure is part of the state’s initiative to reduce plastic waste destined for landfills. The prohibition includes any pre-filled 30ml soy sauce container with a lid, cap, or stopper, despite being made of recyclable plastic.
Environment Minister Susan Close aims for businesses to steer clear of single-use plastics entirely. The fish-shaped containers will be substituted with soy sauce sachets to comply with the new regulations.
“They are still plastics, but they’re much lighter weight, much easier to dispose, and a lot less wasteful,” mentioned Close at a recent press conference. She emphasized the environmental impact of the fish-shaped containers, which are used for seconds but persist in the environment for decades if improperly discarded.
Originally invented in Japan in the 1950s, the containers were initially crafted from glass or ceramics. Close emphasized the risk these containers pose to marine life and stressed the need to eliminate them.
South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas welcomed the ban, effective immediately, emphasizing the importance of minimizing waste from single-use plastics for environmental benefits.
The new regulations will also phase out non-compostable stickers for produce, along with prepackaged cups and bowls for takeout meals. In comparison, England has enforced a ban on single-use plastic plates, cutlery, and certain polystyrene items since October 2023.