New global developments in plastic bans.
"Plastic restriction" is now a global consensus, with numerous countries and regions implementing bans on plastic bags. This article provides a rundown of the latest policies on single-use plastic products worldwide.
The United States: The administration of U.S. President Joe Biden will emphasize alternatives to single-use plastics in government procurement starting July 8, 2024.
The U.S. Department of the Interior will gradually ban single-use plastic products on federal lands, including national parks, with a full ban by 2032.
The UAE will implement a phased plastic ban starting in 2024:
Phase 1 (from January 1, 2024): Prohibits the import, production, circulation, and use of all single-use plastic bags, with exceptions for certain packaging and export products.
Phase 2 (from January 1, 2026): Extends the ban to all single-use plastic products, including cups, cutlery, plates, straws, food containers, plastic bottles, packaging, wet wipes, cotton swabs, balloon sticks, and Styrofoam boxes.
South Korea: Starting September 2024, the Seoul City Government will ban single-use plastic at city-organized events with over 1,000 participants.
Germany
1. Implementation of plastic tax
Germany intended to introduce a "plastic tax" on January 1, 2024, but has now delayed it until January 1, 2025. This extension aims to devise a more efficient, less bureaucratic solution.
2. Coverage and tax rates
The plastic tax targets the sale of certain single-use plastic products (EWK) containing any amount of plastic. It is primarily focused on items in the food sector, including food containers, film packaging, and beverage cups up to 3 liters.
New Zealand
Starting July 1, 2024, New Zealand will ban shopping malls and supermarkets from providing or selling disposable plastic food bags, tableware, and straws.
Vietnam
New regulations: Vietnam will ban the import of waste plastics for reuse from December 31, 2024.
Plastic waste management: The National Action Plan for Marine Plastic Waste Management aims to reduce marine plastic waste by 75% by 2030, enhancing plastic waste collection, sorting, recycling, and processing.
