HYGIENE measures against COVID-19 have set back progress in the war against single-use plastics as many businesses turn to throwaway means of service.
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From plastic takeaway containers to individually wrapped straws and even a reduction in the ability to use reusable cups, different attempts to reduce the spread of the virus has seen plastic waste build up.
But despite the set back, many of Wagga's sustainability experts say the fight isn't over to reduce single-use plastic across the city.
Erin Earth's Benjamin Holt said it was about making the most of what was already on offer.
"This isn't a case of a moral argument here, it's become a necessary switch to plastics in certain situations," he said.
"Wagga is very lucky as a first world city to have such a fantastic recycling system - the Gregadoo Waste Management service has so many recycling options for basically anything that could potentially be recycled and I would suggest in this case, where it might not be avoidable, at least make sure you're recycling where possible."
Mr Holt said it was also important to dispose of all waste ethically.
"The majority of people are responsible when disposing of waste in Wagga, but there are still people who dump takeaway rubbish at inappropriate places in the community, like at the Wiradjuri Reserve and along the river," he said.
"If you have to access items that produce rubbish, at least dispose of it correctly."
There are also ways to reduce the use of plastics starting within the home, according to Mr Holt.
"The best thing to do is watch the War on Waste with your family - It's a really good program and place to start to get ideas for strategies that work for your family, because no two are the same," he said
"Also, investing in a set of Tupperware containers can really cut down on the amount of cling wrap you use, or for a cheaper alternative, try beeswax wrap instead.
"In terms of grocery shopping at the bigger centres though, seek out products with cardboard or recyclable plastic packaging, bring your own reusable bags for fruit and vegetables or put those fresh produce items in the trolley without a bag at all."
Wagga City Council's Environmental Education Officer Alice Kent said it was "absolutely not impossible" to continue sustainable habits during the pandemic.
"Where we should start is by simply saying that any single use plastic that is not of medical-grade is not fail proof," she said.
"Just like bugs can exist and be transported on reusable items, they can also be transported on single use plastic items."
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Ms Kent also reminded the community that while certain cafes may no longer accept reusable cups, the NSW government has not banned their use entirely.
"If your local cafe has decided to not accept reusable cups there are still ways you can support the business and continue to reduce your single use plastic use," she said.
"You could enjoy a sit down coffee in a ceramic mug. You could ask your barista to make your coffee into a ceramic mug and then carefully pour into your own reusable mug, or you could ask your cafe to investigate the 'contactless pour' method whereby the barista will pour your coffee directly into your reusable mug without making any contact."
This month is also recognised by council as 'Plastic Free July', and Ms Kent offered a list of tips to lead a more environmentally friendly lifestyle:
- Remember your reusable shopping bags - and pop cloth ones in the washing machine every so often
- Fill up your reusable water bottle before heading out and about
- Take a reusable straw with you when heading out for a meal or drink
- Pack reusable cutlery for work or picnics
- Use reusable veggie bags for fresh produce
- Select items with less plastic packaging
"We all need to keep ourselves safe and the best way to do this is through regular hand washing, not by reaching for the single use plastic which could lull us into a false sense of security," Ms Kent said.
"But if you have determined to stand the reusables down for the time being, make sure they are ready to go once we come out the other side of COVID to pick up where you left off."