The utilization of reusable containers is relatively straightforward
The utilisation of reusable containers is both lawful and a straightforward, cost-effective, and sustainable solution that businesses can adopt to comply with the ban on single-use plastic.
According to Victoria’s food safety legislation, which includes the Food Act 1984, the Meat Industry Act 1993, and the Seafood Safety Act 2003, there are no restrictions preventing food businesses, retail butcher shops, and seafood retailers from accepting reusable containers from their customers.
Individual businesses have the freedom to decide whether they will allow customers to use their own containers for purchasing retail products. Retail establishments should consider all relevant food safety standards and implement measures to ensure that the use of reusable containers does not compromise the safety or suitability of the retail products for human consumption.
Why Should You Embrace Reusables?
Now more than ever, consumers have a genuine desire to reduce waste. A study conducted by Sustainability Victoria (SV) in 2021 revealed a significant interest in minimizing the use of single-use plastics (SUPs). However, individuals often perceive it as challenging to take action due to the unavoidable presence of plastic in various products.
This research confirms that the detrimental environmental effects of single-use plastics are already deeply rooted in the minds of Victorians. There is a widespread understanding that SUPs contribute to landfill waste, pollution in our oceans, and the depletion of natural resources. The people of Victoria are eager for change.
Businesses have the opportunity to provide a solution for their customers and inform them that reusable containers are welcome. This fosters a cultural norm of bringing your own (BYO).
Benefits of Reusables
By accepting reusables, businesses can enjoy the following advantages:
- Cost savings on purchasing disposable packaging.
- Increased customer loyalty. Welcoming reusables may encourage customers to return to their favorite business as they prioritize sustainability.
- Reduction of waste that would otherwise end up in landfills and harm the environment.
- Free advertising. Take the pledge to be included in the interactive search map and reach new customers who are committed to a sustainable future.
How to Accept Reusables
The use of reusables among Victorians is steadily increasing. A recent survey by SV discovered that in 2021, 60% of respondents used a reusable cup more than three times a week, compared to only 21% in 2020.
To minimize the consumption of single-use items, your business can accept and encourage customers to bring the following reusable items:
- Drinking straws: Encourage customers to bring their own straws, particularly for beverages like bubble tea or smoothies.
- Plastic plates: Encourage regular customers to bring their own food containers, including bowls or plates.
- Expanded polystyrene food containers: Encourage customers to bring their own food containers, including bowls or plates, or consider offering a reusable container service for takeaways.
- Expanded polystyrene drink cups: Encourage customers to bring their own cups or consider offering a reusable cup service for takeaways.
- Plastic cutlery: Encourage customers to dine in instead of using takeaway cutlery, or suggest they bring their own knives, forks, spoons, chopsticks, sporks, splades, or food picks.
Communication Resources
To assist you in communicating to your customers that reusables are welcomed, you can download and print a Reuse poster available in English and various other languages.
Quick Tips
- If a customer presents a container that appears unclean, unsuitable for reuse, or not designed for reuse, politely decline to accept it. Explain to the customer why their container is unsuitable and provide guidance on the types of containers you will accept, encouraging them to try again next time.
- Consider implementing financial incentives for customers who bring their own containers, such as reducing the item’s price based on the savings made on packaging.
- Encourage the uptake of reusables by simply thanking your customers for their commitment to reducing single-use packaging.
