In June 2021, the Western Australian government introduced the Plan for Plastics scheme, which seeks to gradually eliminate single-use plastics by July 1, 2025. With growing concerns about how this scheme will impact polystyrene, we’re here to provide clarity and address any confusion.
So, will expanded polystyrene be banned in Western Australia? The simple answer is no.
The scheme focuses on polystyrene items such as takeaway containers, cups, food trays, and both loose and moulded packaging. As polystyrene is a valuable material with many benefits, the Plan for Plastics does not aim to ban it entirely. Instead, it sets out specific scenarios and criteria where polystyrene is permitted to be used, recognising its crucial role in protecting delicate products.
For a detailed summary of the scheme, see our Plan for Plastics Info Sheet below.