Australia’s youngest Straw No More champion encourages ban of single use plastics in Livingstone

Council has resolved to commence public consultation for consideration of a ‘No Plastic Straw Policy in Livingstone Shire’, following a moving deputation last week by eight-year-old Charlie Erlewein.

The young Straw No More ‘strawbassador, Charlie, presented her community vision at Council Chambers on Tuesday, 16 March, with the support of her mother Kirstin, to highlight the negative impacts single use plastics have on our marine life and the environment.  

After introducing herself and her cause to the Councillors, Charlie said she was the youngest ‘strawbassador’ in Australia. 

“I have been a part of Straw No More since I was six; I am now nearly nine years old. I did this because of my pet turtle, Franklin,” Charlie said.

“Turtles are in danger with straws and single use plastics. Straws can get stuck in their nose or their stomachs.”

“I would like to know how Council is going to address the issue,” Charlie added. 

The Queensland Government will ban single-use plastics and straws from September, 2021.

Portfolio Holder of Water, Waste Management and the Environment, Councillor Andrea Friend, who put forward the Notice of Motion to Council, said she was backing the proposed ban of single use plastics and a proposed Straw No More policy, and is encouraging other Councillors to follow suit.  

“Plastic straws simply break into ever-small particles, releasing the chemicals into the soil, air, and water,” Cr Friend said. 

“These are harmful to animals, plants, people and the environment. It may take decades, if not centuries, for straws to degrade. 

Cr Friend said Central Queensland is home to six of the world’s seven marine turtle species. 

“All six of these species are threatened with extinction, being listed as either vulnerable or endangered, under Australian and Queensland legislation,” she said.

“The Flatback turtle, Green turtle, and Loggerhead Turtle nest on Central Queensland beaches.

“This year’s turtle season had seen 282 marine turtle tracks across Capricorn Coasts. That’s approximately one turtle track per kilometre of our coastline.

“It is imperative that Council sets the standard for a plastic, straw-free, environment.”

More information about the initiative can be found by visiting: www.strawnomore.org