EUROPE- The European Union bans single-use plastic on the market from 3 July 2021 as a measure to halt plastic pollution.
Single-use plastic plates, cutlery, straws, balloon sticks and cotton buds cannot be placed on the markets of the EU Member States.
In addition, the same measure applies to cups, food and beverage containers made of expanded polystyrene, and all products made of oxo-degradable plastic, the EU announced.
Single-use plastic products are made wholly or partly of plastic and are typically intended to be used just once or for a short period before they are thrown away.
“Under the new rules, certain throwaway plastic products for which alternatives exist are banned. Specific measures are also introduced to reduce the use of certain products.” The EU clarified.
According to the EU, it has become necessary to tackle plastic pollution. More than 80% of marine litter is plastic, which eventually accumulates in seas, oceans and on beaches in the EU and worldwide.
Over the years, evidence proofs that plastic residues are found in the human food chain. These plastic wastes are also found in marine species like sea turtles, seals, whales, birds, fish and shellfish.
The EU added that while plastics are a convenient, useful and valuable material, they need to be better used, re-used and recycled. When littered, the economic impact of plastics includes the loss of economic value in the material and the costs of cleaning up, losses for tourism, fisheries and shipping.
“Time is running out for plastics! We are making sure that certain single-use plastic products are no longer placed on the market. We’re moving closer to dealing with the grave impacts of these products and abandoned fishing gear, ” the EU said.
As the European Union bans single-use plastic, many approved the move and calls on other countries to follow.
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Renate is a lawyer, publicist, and writer. She believes that education and information is the key to developing and shaping Africa. In her free time, she paints beautiful art pieces on canvas. Renate believes that life is a perception, and you live it the way you perceive it.
