#ExpandtheBan for Single Use Plastics

 

Plastic pollutes at each stage of its lifecycle and puts the health of the climate, wildlife, ecosystems, and humans at risk. Managing the problem downstream, at the point of pollution, won’t work to reduce waste and curb pollution. We need to reduce the production of plastic to prevent further harm.

Canada committed to achieve zero plastic waste by 2030; however, the current ban on single use plastic products covers only about three per cent of the plastic waste generated nationwide. To meet the zero-plastic waste goal along with key climate and biodiversity restoration targets, we need regulations to phase out the production, distribution, sale, import and export of problematic and unnecessary plastic.

In an open letter, signed by over 60 groups, Friends of the Earth and colleagues call for an expansion of the ban to include these next six categories of single-use plastic manufactured items.

• • All takeout containers, cups, and lids
  • Bottles and caps
  • Sachets, pouches, and wrappers
  • Bags, film, and wrap
  • Filtered cigarettes
  • Produce stickers

We also call for the elimination of various known problematic substances, including PVC, polystyrene (“Styrofoam”), PFAS, bisphenols, and phthalates used in a wide range of plastic products and packaging as well as problematic products including So-called “flushables” and so-called “biodegradable,” “compostable” and “oxo-degradable” plastics.

 

Notes on current ban

[1] The import and manufacturing of stir sticks, straws, checkout bags, cutlery, and takeout containers made from “problematic plastics” is banned since Dec. 20, 2022. The sale and distribution of these items will be banned December 2023.

[2] The import and manufacturing of six-pack rings will be banned June 2023, with a sale and distribution ban June 2024.

[3] The current federal ban, covering the aforementioned six items, will only affect 3% of plastic waste generated.