Melbourne’s Tullamarine Airport recently announced its intention to be free from plastics that are single use by the end of 2021, with plans to eliminate single-use plastic cutlery and straws, as well as plastic and polystyrene containers, from its lounges and venues. The airport’s target timeframe is two years ahead of the 2023 deadline established by the State Government.
In announcing the commitment, Lori Argus, Chief of Aviation for Melbourne Airport, said:
“We know that pollution and waste management is a major concern for travellers, so we’re proud to announce this significant step as part of our traveller experience work stream.”
The announcement comes after significant efforts have already been underway to switch the front-of-house airport operations to more recyclable and sustainable options, such as bamboo. It is estimated that one current measure, the ‘Last Straw’ campaign that has been conducted by one of the airport’s food and beverage service providers, Delaware North, over the past several years, has averted the use of half a million plastic straws to date. Poster printing can be effective when there is an opportunity to make customers aware of the positive impact of the changes being implemented.
Hume City Council has also announced that its buildings and streetlights will all be running on GreenPower renewable energy from July. The move is estimated to result in an annual reduction of 17,500 tonnes in greenhouse gas emissions.