Reducing your plastic use can save a bear

​​​​Popular with children, bears and parents alike, Playgroup Association of Tasmania’s annual Teddy Bear Hunt at the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens is on Tuesday 25 October.  The Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania’s Maree Bakker is hosting Bear Repair, for those bears that need a fresh start.   

“To have children witness the act of repairing something gives them the sense of possibilities,” Maree said. “They experience the notion that things can be repaired, rather than thrown away.”  
 
There’s just one requirement to have a bear repaired: the bear owner must demonstrate how they have reduced their usage of single-use plastic. This could include bringing their own reusable water bottle, cup or cutlery, or a washable drinking straw, to the gardens.   

Maree will also discuss waste minimisation and issues around waste management.   

In response to environmental concerns, the Tasmanian Government is working to phase out problematic single-use plastics such as plastic straws, polystyrene clam shells, cups, bowls, and cutlery from events on public land ahead of a state-wide ban in 2025.   

Head along to the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens on Tuesday 25 October between 9am and 4pm to enjoy the teddy bear vibe!​​
Teddy Bear dressed in blue coat with red hat and red gumboots on recently mowed grass.

Teddy Bear Hunt October 2022