The benefits of phasing out hard-to-recycle and single-use plastics

Phasing out hard-to-recycle and single-use-plastics

The phasing out of hard-to-recycle and single-use plastics is an important step in protecting our environment. It will help to reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfill, and will also reduce the amount of plastic pollution that harms our wildlife.

There are a number of ways that we can phase out hard-to-recycle and single-use plastics. One way is to reduce our reliance on them. We can do this by using reusable alternatives where possible, and by recycling the plastics we do use.

Another way to phase out hard-to-recycle and single-use plastics is to prohibit their sale and manufacture. This would ensure that they are not used in the first place, and would eventually lead to their phased out completely.

Some of the negative impacts of hard-to-recycle and single-use plastics include:

• They take up valuable space in landfill.

• They can pollute our waterways and harm wildlife.

• They can take years to break down.

• They are a major source of plastic pollution.

The benefits of phasing out hard-to-recycle and single-use plastics

While it may be more expensive upfront to phase out hard-to-recycle and single-use plastics, the long-term benefits are clear. Not only will this help to reduce environmental pollution, but it will also create a more sustainable economy that is less reliant on fossil fuels. In addition, phasing out these materials will create jobs in the recycling and manufacturing industries, as well as in related fields such as transportation and logistics.

Reducing environmental pollution is one of the most important reasons for phasing out hard-to-recycle and single-use plastics. These materials are a major source of pollution, particularly marine pollution. Every year, millions of tons of plastic waste end up in the ocean, where it harms marine life and contributes to the formation of oceanic “garbage patches.” In addition to the damage caused to marine ecosystems, this pollution also has a direct impact on human health. Studies have shown that chemicals from plastics can leach into the food chain, and that exposure to these chemicals can lead to a variety of health problems, including cancer.

Phasing out hard-to-recycle and single-use plastics can have many benefits. It can help to reduce pollution, save resources, and create jobs. It can also help to raise awareness about the importance of recycling and the negative impacts of plastic pollution.

New Zealand's plan:

The New Zealand Government has a plan in place to phase out many hard-to-recycle and single-use plastics.

To be phased out by 1st October are the following:

• Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pre-formed, rigid food trays and containers
• Polystyrene (PS) takeaway food and beverage packaging
• Expanded polystyrene (EPS) food and beverage packaging
• Oxo- and photo- degradable plastic products
• Plastic stemmed cotton buds
• Plastic drink stirrers

To be phased out by mid-2023:

• Plastic produce bags
• Plastic plates, bowls and cutlery
• Plastic produce labels
• Plastic straws

To be phased out by mid-2025:

• All other PVC food and beverage packaging
• All other PS food and beverage packaging

Food packaging made from Kraft board are great alternatives to single-use plastic. Sourced sustainably, they are recyclable (if clean), biodegradable and compostable.

Also available are compostable meat and produce trays.

We are here to help, contact us for information or sample options. https://www.insinc.co.nz/insincproductscontact.html