What countries are considering banning the Contact process for environmental reasons and why the process should be banned.
Answers
Explanation:
Representatives from nations around the world met in New York on April 20, 2018 for “Kicking the Plastic Bag Addiction: A Plan for Response to Plastic Pollution” discussion, co-hosted by the Government of Quebec, Earth Day Network, and New York University. The discussion focused on ongoing efforts to tackle plastic pollution through taxes and bans on plastic bags. The good news: countries have proved that laws addressing plastic pollution really do work, reducing overall consumption and preventing millions of plastic bags from ending up in the environment or landfills.
The discussion was full of insights for other countries considering laws and regulations on how to ensure that a plastic ban is successful, including maintaining a solid line of communication between citizens, local NGOs, and the government. Civil society groups are especially well-suited to engaging the wider community and leading powerful educational campaigns. Governments, national and local, have also found that although industry groups push back when policies to drastically reduce the use of plastic bags are planned or announced, they are quick to adapt, especially when they have time to do so and are engaged throughout the process. The following countries and international bodies were present at the meeting and are leading the way in the global campaign to end plastic pollution. Here’s what they have done.
FRANCE
Policy: In July 2016, France banned free distribution of thin single-use plastic bags typically distributed at grocery stores. A ban of thin green bags used for produce followed in January 2017. The bans aim to reduce an estimated five billion plastic grocery bags, and 12 billion produce bags. The French Minister of Sustainable Development noted the importance of reducing plastic pollution to reduce its disastrous effects on marine environments.
Impact: Like most bans on plastics, it has received backlash from the plastic industry. Bio-sourced and biodegradable bags made from a cornstarch and plastic blend have been proposed as a solution to potential negative economic impacts of the ban. In 2016, the French Environment Minister estimated more than 3,000 jobs would result from production of a greener alternative to traditional, single-use grocery bags. The newest addition to the Energy Transition for Green Growth Act proposes a ban on plastic plates and utensils, to be further discussed in 2020.
MEXICO
Policy: Although Mexico does not have a federal ban on plastic bags, many cities and states are taking action to reduce plastic pollution. In 2009, Mexico City introduced legislation to prohibit retailers from distributing single-use non-biodegradable plastic bags. Industrial hub Queretaro became the first municipality in Mexico to ban plastic bags, in April 2018. Cancun, a center for tourism, has proposed a plan to eliminate plastic bags, straws, and water bottles, initially through voluntary action.
Impact: Queretaro intends to strictly enforce the ban by confiscating illicit bags, and denying business license renewal for offenders. Mexico City’s plan was met with pushback from the plastic industry, but the city has persevered in its mission to reduce plastic pollution with a recycling initiative. Officials expect Cancun’s plan to be implemented over the next three years, with intentions to enact a full ban within this time frame.
CANADA
Policy: Montreal implemented a ban on plastic bags with thickness less than 50 microns in January of 2018. Several other municipalities in Canada have followed suit. Victoria intends to ban plastic bags in July of 2018, and Vancouver has also expressed interest in reducing their plastic consumption with a tax or ban. Edmonton has asked businesses to charge for plastic bags, and is reevaluating a ban proposed in 2012.
Impact: The bans on plastic in Canada are relatively new, or still in the process of implementation. Canadian governments have allowed for a six-month grace period for businesses to come into compliance with the new legislation before strictly enforcing the ban. The plans hope to reduce the billions of plastic bags used in Canada every year.
RWANDA
Policy: Rwanda implemented a strict plastic bag ban in 2008. Previously, plastic bags were primarily disposed of by incineration, negatively impacting Rwandan air quality. Bags that were not incinerated clogged streets and waterways.
Impact: The bag ban has been strictly enforced due to challenges posed by smugglers and tourists entering the country. Illegal use of plastic bags can result in fines or jail time. Strict enforcement has had positive impacts on the environment, reducing flooding, harm to wildlife, and erosion.
Explanation:
More than 50 nations – from the Galapagos Islands to India and from Rwanda to China – are taking action to reduce plastic pollution. The UN has compiled a list of what each of these countries is doing – and the success they are having – in a new report called Single-use Plastics: A Roadmap for Sustainability