Council challenged to ban single-use plastic bags
THE green credentials of the Fraser Coast Council will be tested at the next ordinary meeting where it will asked to commit to the eradication of single-use plastic bags from the region.
The council, one that has been identified as pro-development, will be asked to consider moving toward banning bags in what will prove a landmark decision for Queensland if adopted.
The motion to be discussed at the next council meeting reads:
"The Fraser Coast Regional Council commit in principle to the elimination of single use plastic bags on the Fraser Coast.
"That a community working group be established before April 2013 with the aim of regulating plastic bags on the Fraser Coast; with reference to the legislative, environmental, commercial and social impacts of such a regulation.''
Councillor Stuart Taylor, the proposer of the motion, has also called for the working group to recommend a local law on the regulation of plastic bags on the Fraser Coast which will be considered by council on June 5.
"I have been involved in the marketing of the Fraser Coast and the environment is of the highest importance," Cr Taylor said.
"We are acutely aware of the effects plastic bags have on the marine environment, on the dugongs, and particularly the turtles, which mistake them for jellyfish.
Cr Taylor said he had been inspired to call for the ban after the city of Fremantle became the first municipal area in Australia to ban single-use plastic bags.
