Green bags the go, says council

CASEY Council is considering a rollout of recyclable green bags to residents to reduce the five billion plastic checkout bags used in Australia each year.
A bag distribution promotion has already been carried out in the coastal villages of Cannons Creek, Blind Bight, Warneet and Tooradin to help reduce waste and litter in the marine environment.
Councillors now want to see that program spread to the rest of Casey.
At Tuesday’s council meeting, councillors went against council officers’ recommendations and asked for a report on how to proceed with a ward by ward distribution of bags over the next three years.
Councillor Michael Farley said there was a desperate need to reduce the number of plastic bags ending up in waterways, drainage systems and landfills.
Council will look at distributing two green bags to each household or providing a voucher to purchase the bags.
Councillor Rob Wilson said: “We need to look seriously at this. Obviously there are some financial considerations but it is more important that everyone should be using green bags.”
Council will continue to distribute recyclable bags at local events.