Single use plastic ban comes into force

A number of singles use plastics have been banned from being supplied in Wales today.

The decision comes as part of their commitment to addressing climate change and protecting the environment.

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The purpose of this new law is to significantly reduce the amount of plastic pollution entering our surroundings by prohibiting the sale and supply of specific single-use plastic products.

The ban has received overwhelming support from the public, with more than 87% of individuals backing the government's initiative.

As of today, , the following items are now banned from being sold across the country:

• Single-use plastic plates
• Single-use plastic cutlery
• Single-use plastic drinks 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 *

Minister for Climate Change, Julie James said:

“This is the first step in phasing out the need for unnecessary single-use plastic being used and sold in Wales.

“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.”

The public is encouraged to participate in the joint consultation regarding the potential ban on wet wipes containing plastic. Have your say by visiting: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/consultation-launched-to-ban-wet-wipes-containing-plastic