An innovative Port Stephens business is leading the way in affecting change in the habits of consumers and manufacturers by having them move away from the use of plastics.
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Port Stephens Packaging (PSP), established in Taylors Beach in 2004, has in more recent times been at the forefront in introducing plastic alternatives in packaging and promoting a more sustainable and plastic-free environment.
The family business operated by Spiro Andrea, wife Basma, sons Charles and Tim along with general manager Rob Peel hosted a visit from State MP Kate Washington during Plastic Free July to demonstrate just how far the company has come when it comes to promoting plastic-free products.
They are passionate about looking after the environment in which they live and work, and have embarked on a mission to educate the public about waste, recycling and the emergence of compostables.
"The sad truth about paper or plastic is that once you have food on a plate or wrapper it becomes dirty and cannot be recycled. But when food packaging is compostable and disposed together with food waste it can be processed and turned into compost to grow more food," said Mr Andrea.
"There is growing support in the Port Stephens community to switch from plastics to environmental-friendly material such as paper, sugarcane, bamboo, wood, cardboard and palm leaves. The challenge is the cost... consumers must be prepared to pay a little extra."
The company is also pushing a tamper-proof soap dispenser to replace the mini plastic shampoo, conditioner and body cleansing tubes found in hotels/motels and public facilities.
"We have an education and awareness program in place to encourage consumers to be more vigilant in their shopping habits and look for the non-plastic alternatives on offer."
Ms Washington said it was refreshing to see a small business showing leadership and being so passionate in their quest to change consumer buying habits.
"The owners and staff live here so they have a vested interest in the products they sell," she said.
"I believe that PSP can become a great influence on the Port Stephens business community and how they can transition to more environmentally-friendly products. By raising awareness it is hoped that demand for non-plastic products will match supply."
Mr Peel, a member of Plastic Free Port Stephens, said that Plastic Free July provided consumers with a great opportunity to speak up about their preferences and "choose to refuse" where necessary.
"We want to educate the public about the options that are available today so they can make informed choices with their purchases."
Some of those products include shopping bags, water bottles, coffee cups, containers and straws. There was also unanimous agreement that manufacturers had an important role to play.