PROJECT OVERVIEW
Globally 95% of all plastic packaging is used once and then wasted, often as litter. In its 2014 Marine Debris report in Australia, the CSIRO stated that, ‘two thirds of the marine debris found along our coastline is plastic, most from local sources.’
But...Australia is changing
In Australia, most state governments are moving to reduce plastic litter through the introduction of Container Deposit Schemes and bans on plastic bags and other single-use items. These measures have been shown to dramatically reduce plastic litter and are recognised as good steps in addressing plastic pollution of our environment.
The next step is community action
Many individuals and businesses have become aware of the plastic pollution problem and are changing practices. However, we need whole communities taking control of their plastic footprint, with a focus on long lasting solutions.
Empowering communities to make a difference
Plastic Free Townsville is one of eleven communities under Boomerang Alliance's 'Plastic Free Places' program, which focuses on the next step to achieving this wide-scale change.
These communities are playing a vital role in the next stage towards fighting against plastic pollution, leading the way in showing what can be achieved when a community works together - and are empowering other communities to follow.
Plastic Free Townsville
The goal of Plastic Free Townsville is to reduce single-use plastic packaging by engaging food outlets in Townsville and assisting them to switch to better alternatives.
We differ from other community initiatives by working directly with business owners in person, offering targeted advice that leads to lasting and empowering change for them and their staff. Our on-ground coordinators have a wealth of knowledge and experience in alternative products and practices, with a dedicated research and communications team behind the scenes supporting them.