Several single-use plastics have been banned from being sold across Wales as new legislation comes into force.
The Welsh Government said the ban will prohibit the supply of certain products and, thus, reduce the flow of plastic pollution into the environment.
Which single use plastic products are banned?
Starting this week, the following single-plastic products are banned from being sold.
Single-use plastic plates.
Single-use plastic cutlery.
Single-use plastic drink stirrers.
Cups made of expanded or foamed extruded polystyrene.
Takeaway food containers made of expanded or foamed extruded polystyrene.
Single-use plastic balloon sticks.
Single-use plastic-stemmed cotton buds.
Single-use plastic drinking straws.
From Monday there will be a ban on anyone selling or supplying some single-use plastic products 🚫#SingleUsePlasticBanWales pic.twitter.com/5YbMGign6E
— Welsh Government Climate Change (@WGClimateChange) October 27, 2023
Climate change minister Julie James said the ban builds on the work of many communities across Wales that have already gone plastic-free.
“This is the first step in phasing out the need for unnecessary single-use plastic being used and sold in Wales,” she said.
“We’re committed to eradicating single-use plastic and our next phase will see the banning of plastic single-use carrier bags, polystyrene lids for cups and food containers, and products made of oxo-degradable plastic, which will come into force before the end of the Senedd term.
“Many businesses across Wales have already adopted the change prior to the ban by switching to reusable products or swapping out their plastic for cardboard or paper alternatives where reusables aren’t suitable.
“We’re also looking at plastic-based wet wipes which can block drains, contribute to flooding and add microplastic fibres to our environment.
“If we all take a ‘Team Wales’ approach and look to reuse, recycle and repair more, it’ll help create a greener future for generations to come.”
On another note, the Welsh Government has placed exemptions on single-use plastic straws for those who use them to eat and drink safely and independently.
In England, a ban on a range of single-use plastic items came into force on October 1, following a similar move in Scotland last year.
