Zoos Victoria has made the decision to ban the use of single plastic bottles in zoos across the state from May 1st.
In a move to contain waste, all plastic bottles used for drinking water, soft drinks and even plastic straws will not be sold or used at the three zoo sites. Organisations can use flyer or brochure printing to advise customers of their policies.
Werribee Open Range Zoo, Melbourne Zoo and Healesville Sanctuary have implemented the ban and it is hoped that the use of more sustainable products will help in protecting the environment, particularly endangered marine life.
Drinking water will be available at taps located around the zoo at no charge and will also be sold in cans that are able to be recycled.
Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio has said that plastic pollution is a huge environmental problem, with the department keen to invest more into projects that promote recycling and reduce the amount of waste that currently goes to landfill.
Zoos Victoria Marine Rescue Response Unit deals directly with the result of plastic pollution, being called to rescue a rising number of distressed marine wildlife.
Zoos Victoria is a zoo-based conservation group that aims to work towards a more sustainable future for wildlife. It hopes that its move to reduce plastic waste will encourage visitors and other organisations to also make positive changes and switch to more environmentally friendly products.
