New Zealand has just announced its plan to ban most single-use plastic and hard-to-recycle packaging by 2025. They will begin phasing out much of their plastic starting 2022.
According to The Guardian, they are one of the top 10 per-capita producers of landfill waste in the world but want to match the country’s reality to its “clean green” reputation.
Back in 2019, New Zealand made the decision to phase out single-use plastic bags. This is the next step in their environmental commitment.
Cotton buds, bags, cutlery, plates and bowls, straws, and fruit labels are among some of the plastic soon to be phased out, writes Tess McClure from The Guardian.
As reported by EcoWatch. plastic cups, wet wipes and certain types of polystyrene used to transport cold goods will not be included in the ban for now, but the government will study possible replacements and announce a decision on these items by 2022.
“These types of plastics often end up as waste in landfills and cause pollution in our soils, waterways, and the ocean. Reducing plastic waste will improve our environment and ensure we live up to our clean, green reputation,” says Environment Minister David Parker. “Phasing out unnecessary and problematic plastics will help reduce waste to landfill, improve our recycling system and encourage reusable or environmentally responsible alternatives.”
The plastics phase-outs will be carried out over three stages, beginning in late 2022 for items which are easier to replace with more environmentally-friendly options, such as recyclable plastic or paper-based containers, writes TVNZ.
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