The Welsh government has passed a new law to ban or restrict the sale of single-use plastics across the principality, in a UK first.
The new legislation, which will take effect from autumn 2023, aims to reduce plastic pollution and will give local authorities the power to enforce the offence of supplying or offering to supply the commonly littered items, even when they are free.
The current list of banned or restricted single-use plastic products are: cutlery, plates, stirrers, drinking straws (this product has an exemption for health needs), plastic stemmed cotton buds, balloon sticks, expanded and foamed extruded polystyrene fast food containers, expanded and foamed extruded polystyrene cups, polystyrene lids for all cups and fast-food containers, thin plastic single-use carrier bags (this product also has an exemption for health or safety needs), and all products made of oxo-degradable plastic.
The Association of Convenience Stores has welcomed the new law as a measure to reduce plastic waste, but said it was concerned over the short timescale in which the law will come into effect. In a previous submission, it had called on the Welsh government to ensure a minimum implementation period of 12 months.
“Convenience retailers are committed to making a positive difference in their communities and recognise the importance of reducing plastic pollution and have a proven track record in doing so through the successful implementation of a charge for single-use plastic bags for a number of years now,” said ACS CEO James Lowman.
“The timescales for the introduction of this legislation could be challenging for businesses, as they need to sell through the existing stock and source alternatives for their customers. We will continue to engage with the Welsh government on this new legislation, which needs to be supported by a clear communications plan which provides guidance for businesses and clarity for consumers to avoid confusion and frustration.”
No comments yet