Wellington, 6 April —New Zealand has taken a pioneering step towards reducing plastic waste by becoming the first country to prohibit single-use produce bags in supermarkets. This groundbreaking measure came into effect on July 1, alongside the existing practice of customers bringing their own shopping bags.
The move is a response to the detrimental impacts of single-use plastics, which can lead to pollution, harm wildlife, and clog essential infrastructure. By banning these plastic bags for fruits and vegetables, New Zealand aims to eliminate approximately 150 million bags annually from circulation. This translates to averting 17,000 plastic bags per hour.
Around the world, nations have been progressively addressing the issue of single-use plastic bags by either implementing charges or outright bans in retail establishments. Simultaneously, global efforts are underway through the United Nations Environment Assembly, uniting representatives from 175 countries to develop a comprehensive strategy for combating plastic pollution by 2024.
New Zealand's initiative doesn't stop at produce bags. The country has also extended its plastic reduction efforts by banning the production, sale, and distribution of disposable plates, bowls, and cutlery. Furthermore, stores will provide single-use plastic straws exclusively to individuals with disabilities or specific health requirements.
This milestone achievement in New Zealand's battle against plastic waste marks a victory for our planet. By taking tangible steps to minimize single-use plastics, the nation sets a remarkable example for the world to follow. It underlines the significance of collective action in safeguarding our environment and promoting sustainable practices for the well-being of current and future generations.
Sources: Ministry for the Environment. "Plastic ban to remove 150 million produce bags each year". https://environment.govt.nz/news/plastic-ban-to-remove-150-million-produce-bags-each-year/. 4 April 2023. [Accessed: 6 April 2023].
United Nations News. "Nations sign up to end global scourge of plastic pollution". https://news.un.org/en/story/2022/03/1113142. 2 March 2022. [Accessed: 10 April 2023].
Edited by Arnav Dhavale.
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