Eight problematic or unnecessary single-use plastics have been published by WRAP that members of The UK Plastics Pack are expected to remove from shelf by the end of 2020.
These eight core items include disposable plastic cutlery, plastic stirrers, plastic draws, all polystyrene packaging, disposable plastic plates and bowls, PVC packaging, oxo-degradables that break down creating microplastics, and cotton buds with plastic stems.
They are accompanied by a second list of nineteen plastic items which are to be prioritised for action to tackle problems associated with them by 2025. These include pouches, plastic bags, PVC cling film and teabags, among others.
In doing so, WRAP said there will be a reduction in the amount of plastic on the shelves, a reduction in demand for virgin plastic and avoiding up to 1 tonne of Co2 per tonne that is recycled.
Defining the issue
WRAP, the resource efficiency body that oversees The UK Plastics Pact, has this week published its definition of what is meant as “problematic” or “unnecessary” plastics which relies on the following criteria:
Where it is avoidable, or a re-usable alternative is available.
When it cannot be recycled, or it hampers the recycling process.
When it is commonly littered and pollutes the environment.
Solving these problems, it says, will require collaboration and effort from all businesses and involve a range of actions such as considering re-fills, improved packaging design and optimising recycling.
A key element is also ensuring that citizens are both motivated to recycle, and are clear on what can be recycled and how to recycle it.
WRAP warns however, in seeking to overcome the problems with these plastics any unintended consequences that could lead to further global warming must be avoided.
“We know that more people than ever are concerned about the impact of plastics. The fundamental way industry can support this public desire is by addressing the issues that lead to plastic packaging being problematic,” said WRAP Director Peter Maddox.
“So for every item of packaging we need to consider whether plastic is the right material choice, or indeed if packaging is required at all. In many cases, plastic may be the best material choice from an environmental perspective.
“In these cases, we need to ensure that the plastic can be and is recycled. The items listed today are priorities for UK Plastics Pact members, and the onus is on those members to implement changes, urgently.”
Next steps
WRAP’s approach anticipated the UK Government’s ban on straws, drink stirrers and cotton buds and the European Union’s Single Use Plastic Directive which additionally targets expanded (but not all) polystyrene food containers, and single-use plastic cutlery and plates.
WRAP will now be developing individual action plans with UK Plastics Pact members to ensure that progress is made on this longer list as quickly as possible.
In addition these lists will be kept under constant review by WRAP to ensure the target of eliminating problematic or unnecessary plastic packaging is met by 2025.
