A proposed trial to test a 10 cent charge on plastic bags is planned to start in August at three locations in Victoria, CEO of the Australian National Retailers Association (ANRA) Margy Osmond said today.
ANRA and the Victorian Government today announced that an application to authorise the trial of a temporary charge on plastic bags has been submitted to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission.
As the trial involves retailers collectively setting a price for plastic bags during the trial authorisation is required under the Trade Practices Act. If approved by the ACCC, Coles, Safeway and IGA will participate in the one month trial.
The trial will test a 10 cent charge at the Fountain Gate shopping centre (Narre Warren) and nearby stores, Warrnambool and Wangaratta.
“Modelling for the Australian Government shows that a 10 cent charge on plastic bags could result in an 80 per cent reduction in bag use, and an 86 per cent reduction in litter.”
Mrs Osmond said the large retailers are helping consumers reduce their reliance on plastic bags. “Woolworths and Coles have led the way by giving consumers an alternative to plastic bags by providing green bags and recycling facilities.”
“Australians are kicking their plastic bag habit. Between 2002 and 2007 Australians reduced their plastic bag use by 34 per cent,” Mrs Osmond said.
Mrs Osmond said retailers will not profit from the charge. “Any profit raised from the bag trial will be spent on environmental projects and community education,” Mrs Osmond said.
The data from the trial will be collected and analysed by an independent body before being considered at the next meeting of State, Territory and Commonwealth Environment Ministers (EPHC) in November 2008.
AAP
