New South Wales passes single-use coffee cup legislation

The New South Wales government has passed new legislation aimed at reducing waste from single-use takeaway coffee cups as part of the NSW Plastics Ban 2.0. The reforms target the nearly 800 million single-use cups used in the state annually.

Key measures include a 2028 requirement that all single-use takeaway coffee cups must be recyclable. Additionally, from 2028, cafes will be required to provide mugs or glasses for dine-in customers and must accept clean, hygienic reusable cups for takeaway orders. By December 2030, eligible large-scale food businesses must offer reusable cup options and participate in reuse schemes.

While the government states that small businesses will be exempt from certain requirements to ease the transition, critics and opposition members have raised concerns regarding the potential for increased costs and regulatory burdens on the hospitality industry. Environment Minister Penny Sharpe defended the move, stating the reforms were designed in partnership with industry to support a smooth transition to reusable alternatives.