Australians use an estimated 4 billion light-weight plastic bags a year and in an effort to curb waste South Australia, Tasmania, Northern Territory and the ACT have already banned the bag, with Queensland joining them.

Greens Marine spokesperson Justin Field said NSW was playing catch up on taking the action needed to stop plastic pollution.

“Every year in NSW thousands of marine animals are injured and killed by plastic pollution in our oceans. There is one way to fix it - it's time to put an end to single use plastics,” Mr Field said.

“NSW is falling behind the rest of the country and the rest of the world when it comes to reducing litter and protecting our marine life.

“While states like Queensland have banned or are on their way to banning single-use plastic bags, Premier Berejikilan has refused to act.

“The state has become a plastic pariah, trashing our natural environment and people’s health.

Mr Field said big supermarkets announcing their plastic bag bans is further evidence that the public is ready for a statewide ban on single-use plastic bags. 

“Now we need action from the NSW Premier,” Mr Field said. 

“Every day we delay is a missed opportunity for reducing our pollution, protecting marine life and creating a healthier future for NSW.

“The Greens will stand with the community and keep up pressure for the change needed.”