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The Australian Retailers Association worked with the Environment Protection and Heritage Council as well as individual retailers to develop a Voluntary Code of Practice to reduce plastic bag use in the retail sector.
The Code of Practice splits retailers into two groups.
Group One Retailers
- Includes major and smaller supermarket chains and independent supermarkets sponsored by wholesalers or run under banner groups.
- These signatories need to provide audited results showing reduction and recycling levels.
- These organisations provide significant funding towards the industry communications campaign as well as adjusting their operations to support the Code initiatives.
Group Two Retailers
- Includes all other businesses using lightweight plastic carry bags.
- It is not compulsory for Group Two retailers to commit to the Code in its entirety, although retailers are encouraged to read it.
- A number of Group Two retailers have already signed the Code and are working to implement positive changes in their business.
The Voluntary Code of Practice
Key commitments for Group Two Retailers:
- Train staff to support the Code's aims.
- Sell reusable bags in your stores if practical.
- Let your customers know you are a Code signatory and that you support the Code's aims.
- Make information available to customers about how they can participate.
- Provide recycling bins if practicable.
- Provide recycled content bags if possible.
- Provide the ARA with figures on the number of bags you purchased in 2003, 2004 and 2005 (form available), to be used as part of industry reporting.
Group Two retailers are asked to commit to the Code's principles and support the Code's key commitments, where practical. e.g. if it is not practical for you to sell reusable bags in your stores or to provide recycling bins, then you may choose to focus on training staff to reduce bag use and educate customers about how they can participate.
For more information about the Voluntary Code of Practice, visit The Australian Retailers Association or contact the Australian Retailers Association on (02) 9290 3766.
Remember, our government wants to phase-out plastic bags by the end of 2008. By taking action now, you'll be gearing your business up for the phase-out and ensuring you and your customers are ready.
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