Lexa Hardwick
Coles have committed to phasing out soft-plastic shopping bags in-store and online by the end of June as the supermarket strengthens its commitment to reduce unnecessary plastic packaging.
Coles Group chief operations and sustainability officer Matt Swindells said the decision to end the sale of soft-plastic bags nationwide, both in-store and online, was an important step in meeting the supermarket’s sustainability ambitions.
“Today’s decision to no longer offer soft-plastic bags at the checkout is proof of our commitment to reducing the amount of plastic used in our stores and online. This positive change will remove 230 million plastic bags from circulation in 1 year,” he said .
“The most sustainable option is to bring your own reusable bag to the supermarket, but for those who forget, we will continue to sell 100 per cent recycled paper bags that can be recycled kerbside, as well as other reusable options.”
Lauren Engledow, a Mon Repos Turtle ranger, welcomed the change as she believes it will have positive impacts on all marine life.
“Any reduction in plastic usage whether it’s hard or soft, can prevent plastic waste from ending up in the ocean,” Lauren said.
Ms Engledow believes such changes encourage people to be more conscious of their consumption habits and to think about the necessity of using certain items.
“Change can take a while to get used to. You have to remember your bags and be prepared. It’s just a matter of getting into that habit and understanding the benefits,” Lauren said.
When asked about other items in supermarkets that should be reconsidered, Ms Engledow suggested looking into eliminating various single-use plastic items like produce bags.
Additionally, she advocated for packaging products in reusable materials and reducing plastic packaging overall. Ms Engledow even mentioned the idea of reintroducing refillable stations for items like milk bottles, similar to how it was done in the past.
“There’s a lot, making a change with bags and straws is a great starting point. Having things packaged in reusable packaging. Reusable stations would be great, imagine being able to take milk bottles back to be refilled,” she said.
Ms Engledow emphasised how crucial it was for people to rally behind these changes and offer their support. She encouraged consumers to use their purchasing power and voice to promote further positive changes in the future.
“It’s everyone’s responsibility to continue to use your buying power and your voice to encourage other changes”