New Zealand to ban most single-use plastics by 2025
Cutlery, bags, cotton buds, drinking straws and takeaway containers are among prohibited items. The items will be phased out in three stages between late 2022 and July 2025.
In its latest environmental commitment, New Zealand has announced a ban on the majority of single-use plastics by 2025.
A new fund, $50 million Plastics Innovation Fund, will be launched to help find alternatives to plastics and to find new ways to deal with plastic throughout its lifecycle, from production to disposal. Environment Minister said the timing of the ban was intended to strike a balance between the public’s call for action and the need for businesses to seek alternatives.
The bans will phase out hard-to-recycle food and drink packaging made from PVC and polystyrene, as well as some degradable plastic products. Enbvironment Minister said the changes follow consultation with about 8000 individuals and businesses last year.
The products will be phased out in three stages beginning late next year, as the government moves to ban hard-to-recycle products by mid-2025, including drink stirrers, cotton buds, produce bags, cutlery, plates and bowls, straws and fruit labels.
The policy will remove an estimated two billion single-use items from landfills or the environment each year.
The ban will not extend to single-use cups, wet wipes, or some types of expanded polystyrene used to transport cold goods and protect large items, but the government will study possible replacements and announce a decision on these items by 2022.
