The duration of using one package is 25 minutes on average. In a landfill, however, it can decompose from 100 to 500 years.
And by 2050, there may be more plastic than fish in the ocean. This is the conclusion reached by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation. One of the main suppliers of plastic waste is the packaging industry, which in recent years has been heavily criticized almost all over the world.
- France
The distribution of disposable plastic bags in supermarkets was outlawed in France back in July 2016. After half a year, the use of plastic bags for packaging fruits and vegetables was prohibited at the legislative level.
And after 2 years, France will completely abandon plastic dishes. A law has been passed according to which all plastic plates, cups and cutlery will be banned by 2020. They will be replaced by disposable tableware made from biologically natural, environmentally friendly materials that can be turned into organic fertilizers.
- USA
There is no national law in the country that would regulate the sale of packages. But some states have similar regulations. For the first time, San Francisco voted for a document aimed at limiting the consumption of plastic packaging. Subsequently, other states passed similar laws, and Hawaii became the first American territory where plastic bags were banned from distribution in stores.
- United Kingdom
In England, there is a successful law on the minimum price for the package: 5p per piece. In the first six months, the use of plastic packaging in the country decreased by more than 85%, which is as much as 6 billion unused bags!
Previously, similar initiatives have been implemented in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. And for 10p British supermarkets are offered reusable “bags for life.” Torn ones, by the way, are exchanged for new ones for free.
- Tunisia
Tunisia became the first Arab country to ban plastic shopping bags from March 1, 2017.
- Turkey
The use of plastic bags has been limited since the beginning of this year. Authorities are encouraging buyers to use fabric or other non-plastic bags. Plastic bags in stores – only for money.
- Kenya
The country has the world’s toughest law to reduce plastic waste. It allows you to take measures even against those who simply, through an oversight, used a one-time package: even tourists who brought shoes in a suitcase in a polyethylene bag run the risk of a huge fine.
- Ukraine
A petition banning the use and sale of plastic bags was signed by 10 Kiev residents, and the mayor’s office also supported. At the end of last year, a corresponding appeal was sent to the Verkhovna Rada, there is no answer yet.