South Australia has become the first place in the world to ban fish-shaped plastic soy sauce packets.
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The ban took effect on Monday in the Australian state as part of efforts to cut pollution, reduce carbon emissions and protect marine life, the South Australian government said in a statement.
“Each fish-shaped container is used for just seconds yet remains in the environment for years, causing harm and contributing to microplastic pollution,” the statement said.
The ban targets pre-filled 30ml (1oz) containers with a lid, cap or stopper, commonly seen in takeaway sushi shops. Plastic sachets and bulk soy sauce bottles remain unaffected.
“The small size of the fish-shaped soy containers means they’re easily dropped, blown away or washed into drains, making them a frequent component of beach and street litter,” South Australian Environment Minister Susan Close said.
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The containers, invented in Japan in 1954, were first made of glass or ceramic before mass-produced plastic versions became a global staple. Their small size makes them difficult to recycle efficiently.