The plastic bag ban prohibits retailers from providing single-use, lightweight polyethylene plastic bags (less than 35 microns). This includes degradable plastic bags (as opposed to compostable biodegradable bags made from plant starch).
Retailers should check with their supplier if unsure about the composition or thickness of bags.
Degradable plastic bags (less than 35 microns in thickness) are banned in the ACT. Degradable bags are still made of plastic, but have an additive which encourages them to break apart more quickly than standard plastic bags. They cause similar environmental harm to standard plastic bags which is why they are also banned. They’re different to biodegradable bags, which are made from plant starch rather than plastic
hese are made of thicker plastic and are the type used by clothing and department stores. They’re also now sold at most ACT supermarkets.
These bags can be reused many times, however they only have a better environmental outcome than single-use shopping bags if reused at least four times, so remember to take them with you when shopping.