Woolworths customers can now choose from an extended range of sustainable picnicware following the removal of single-use plastic cutlery, cups, bowls and plates from sale nationwide.
The phase down of single-use plastic picnicware has taken place over recent months, with the removal of these items from its supermarkets in South Australia, ACT and Queensland between March and September this year and the national milestone being achieved this week.
The retailer says the move will eliminate approximately 2.1 million kilograms of plastic annually.
“Removing single-use plastic cutlery and other picnicware will not only cut plastic in landfill, but is the right thing to do for the health of our oceans and waterways where these items can unfortunately end up,” says Woolworths Supermarkets Commercial Director for Everyday Needs James Hepworth.
“Along with this change, we’re offering customers an extended picnic range of more sustainable options made from materials like sugarcane pulp, bamboo, wood and paper.”
The new range of sustainable picnicware includes more than 50 new products and a number of kids’ and party designs to ensure there are more sustainable options available for every occasion.
All paper and wooden products in the range are FSC certified for sustainable forestry.
“We’re committed to growing greener for our customers and their communities by increasing the sustainability of our range,” says Mr Hepworth.
In addition to single-use plastic picnicware, Woolworths has also removed a number of single-use plastics in recent years, including:
- Cotton tips
- Straws
- Bags.
Woolworths is working across its entire operations to reduce plastic and increase the sustainability of its products.
It has committed to make 100 per cent of its own brand packaging recyclable, compostable or reusable by the end of 2023.
