Reminder Over Plastics Ban

Businesses have been reminded that a range of common single-use (SUP) plastics items will be banned in three months’ time.

Tynwald members voted unanimously to replace the sale, distribution and supply of 10 items, which have more sustainable alternatives in October 2022, following a public consultation on the legislation.

Businesses were given 12 months to make the necessary changes before the Climate Change (Single Use Plastic) Regulations 2022 make it illegal to sell or supply SUP straws, carrier bags, cutlery, including chopsticks, plates, stirrers, plastic-stemmed cotton buds, polystyrene cups and polystyrene food containers for immediate use.

Some exemptions will be made for certain items, including the use of plastic bags for uncooked meat and fish, and plastic straws and cotton buds used in medical settings. Compostable plastic certified to British Standard BS EN 13432 and carrier bags made of woven plastic or reusable bag of a certain specification.

Dr Michelle Haywood MHK, political member for the environment, said: ‘This legislation positions the Isle of Man at the forefront of the fight against plastic pollution and aligns with the values of a UNESCO Biosphere and Our Island Plan objectives. Businesses should be well underway with their plans now and we are working closely with them to offer help – but ultimately failure to act could result in fines.’

A guidance document and a range of helpful information can be found on netzero.im.