Woolworths Cessnock to go single-use plastic bag free on June 20

The move will see the removal of 3.2 billion lightweight plastic bags from circulation across Australia each year.

Woolworths Cessnock store manager Mel Stubbs said Woolworths is proud to be able to help create a greener future for Australia.

“We appreciate that it will be a big change for our customers and will do what we can to support them through the transition to make it as smooth and simple as possible,” she said.

“Our local team members will chat with customers regularly to ensure they know about the upcoming change and the various options available, as well as sharing tips on how to remember to bring reusable bags when shopping.

“We know our customers will have their own ways of remembering bags and we look forward to hearing how they are planning for the change as well.”

In the lead up to June 20, there will be increased signage in-store and at checkouts reminding customers on the date change.

Customers will have the option to bring in their own bags or will be able to buy a range of reusable bag options starting from 15 cents.

The move by Woolworths has the support of Planet Ark CEO Paul Klymenko.

“It will have a really positive impact on our environment and we're confident the local community will embrace it,” he said.

“Single-use plastic bags have become a huge problem for Australia’s oceans and waterways where they cause significant harm to marine life, such as turtles and whales.

“They also don't breakdown in landfill and require significant resources to manufacture in the first place.

“Experience in countries like the UK and Ireland shows that the introduction of small charges on plastic bags can end up reducing plastic bag usage by up to 85 percent as locals embrace reusable alternatives.

“This is a real win for the environment.”