Scotland has become the first part of the UK to implement a ban on many 'problematic' single-use plastics.
The legislation, called the Environmental Protection (Single-use Plastic Products) (Scotland) Regulations 2021, which was passed by the Scottish Parliament during COP26 last year, came into force yesterday on Wednesday, June 1.
The ban means it will be an offence for businesses in Scotland to provide the items – which include plastic cutlery, plates and stirrers.
Circular Economy Minister Lorna Slate r said: “By banning some of the most problematic single-use plastic items in Scotland, we are turning our promises into action.
"Every year, hundreds of millions of single-use plastic are wasted, with many of them littering our beaches, waters and parks.
"This ban will encourage businesses to make the switch to reusable alternatives, helping to reduce litter and cut emissions."
These regulations, have come into force following a six month grace period - during which Zero Waste Scotland ran a business campaign to raise awareness on how to prepare.
It is estimated that 700 million of these single-use items are currently used in Scotland every year.
So, what plastic items are no longer permitted and what are the penalties for those who do not follow the new rules?
Banned plastic items
The ban on single use plastics applies to the following items:
- Plastic cutlery (forks, knives, spoons, chopsticks)
- Plastic plates
- Straws
- Beverage stirrers
- Balloon sticks
- Food containers made of expanded polystyrene
- Cups and other beverage containers made of expanded polystyrene, including their covers and lids.
The new legislation applies to single use plastic straws, but exemptions will be made to ensure that those who need them for independent living or medical purposes can still access them.
Scotland's new legislation explained
To make the ban effective, the Scottish Government pressed UK Ministers to the exclude the Scottish ban from the UK Internal Market Act.
The Act would have rendered the ban ineffective, as businesses in Scotland would have been able to supply banned items that originated from the rest of the UK.
This exclusion has been granted and will come into effect shortly after June 1.
Until then, the ban applies to single use plastics manufactured or imported directly into Scotland.
This means Scots businesses can continue to purchase single use products from outside suppliers, until the exclusion comes into force.
All rules apply to purchases made in store or online, whether they are free or paid for.
What are the fines?
According to the Scottish Government, businesses who fail to comply with the Environmental Protection (Single-use Plastic Products) (Scotland) Regulations 2021 could face a maximum fine of £5,000.
Enforcement of these new regulations will be the responsibility of each local authority.
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