New laws have been implemented in Wales to prohibit the sale of various single-use plastic items.

The Welsh government announced that the ban on certain products would decrease the amount of plastic pollution entering the environment.

Starting on Monday, the sale of the following single-use plastics will be prohibited:

Single-use plastic plates.

Single-use plastic cutlery.

Plastic stirrers for one-time use in beverages.

Cups made of expanded or foamed extruded polystyrene.

Containers for takeout food that are composed of expanded or foamed extruded polystyrene.

Plastic sticks used for one-time use with balloons.

Cotton swabs with plastic stems that can only be used once.

Disposable plastic straws for drinking.

Julie James, the minister in charge of addressing climate change, stated that the prohibition is a continuation of the efforts made by numerous communities in Wales that have already eliminated the use of plastic.

She stated that this is the initial phase of eliminating the requirement for unnecessary one-time use plastic being utilized and sold in Wales.

“We are dedicated to eliminating the use of single-use plastic. In our upcoming phase, we will prohibit the use of plastic single-use carrier bags, polystyrene lids for cups and food containers, and products made of oxo-degradable plastic. These measures will be implemented before the end of the Senedd term.”

Numerous Welsh businesses have proactively embraced the shift by transitioning to durable items or substituting plastic with biodegradable options like cardboard or paper in cases where reusable items are not feasible.

We are also examining disposable wipes made of plastic material, which can clog drains, contribute to flooding, and introduce microplastic fibers into our surroundings.

“If we adopt a ‘team Wales’ mindset and prioritize reusing, recycling, and repairing, it will contribute to a more environmentally-friendly future for future generations.”

The government of Wales has granted exceptions for single-use plastic straws for individuals who need them to consume food and beverages safely and without assistance.

On October 1st, England implemented a ban on various types of disposable plastic items, following a similar action taken in Scotland last year.

Source: theguardian.com