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The Statista "Chart of the Day" currently focuses on two sectors: "Media and Technology", updated daily and featuring the latest statistics from the media, internet, telecommunications and consumer electronics industries; and "Economy and Society", which current data from the United States and around the world relating to economic and political issues as well as sports and entertainment.

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Infographic: The Countries Banning Plastic Bags

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The Statista "Chart of the Day" currently focuses on two sectors: "Media and Technology", updated daily and featuring the latest statistics from the media, internet, telecommunications and consumer electronics industries; and "Economy and Society", which current data from the United States and around the world relating to economic and political issues as well as sports and entertainment.

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Edpuzzle assignment. Make video delivery an interactive experience. Students watch the lesson while answering the quizzes. The teacher gets the powerful hassle-free analytics.

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Edpuzzle assignment. Make video delivery an interactive experience. Students watch the lesson while answering the quizzes. The teacher gets the powerful hassle-free analytics.

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Easily create beautiful interactive video lessons for your students you can integrate right into your LMS. Track students' progress with hassle-free analytics as you flip your classroom!

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Edpuzzle assignment. Make video delivery an interactive experience. Students watch the lesson while answering the quizzes. The teacher gets the powerful hassle-free analytics.

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California Sen. Catherine Blakespear on why a second plastic bag ban is needed

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Easily create beautiful interactive video lessons for your students you can integrate right into your LMS. Track students' progress with hassle-free analytics as you flip your classroom!

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California Sen. Catherine Blakespear on why a second plastic bag ban is needed

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Edpuzzle assignment. Make video delivery an interactive experience. Students watch the lesson while answering the quizzes. The teacher gets the powerful hassle-free analytics.

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Companies cut down on millions of plastic straws, after Girl Scout’s letter

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Because of a Girl Scout’s letter, companies including Alaska Airlines, Dignity and Farmer Brothers are reducing or eliminating their use of disposable plastic straws.

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Companies cut down on millions of plastic straws, after Girl Scout’s letter

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Because of a Girl Scout’s letter, companies including Alaska Airlines, Dignity and Farmer Brothers are reducing or eliminating their use of disposable plastic straws.

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In recent years, concerns about the necessary protection of our environment have been growing steadily. To combat this increasing problem, countries around the world are now introducing But why are these bans being enforced and where can we find them? Should everywhere and everyone ban plastic straws? Let's delve a bit deeper into the reasons for these plastic straw bans, and see which countries have already implemented them. plastic straw bans as part of their many efforts to reduce plastic waste.
10 Reasons Why Plastic Straws Should Be Banned

Plastic straws have become commonplace within many restaurants, cafés, and fast-food chains - but their convenience is being debated and their use is controversial. As environmental awareness increases, governments are taking action to proudly reduce plastic consumption; banning plastic straws in various countries and regions.

The convenience of plastic straws is something that cannot be denied. They prove to be lightweight, inexpensive and can be disposed of easily. However, these positives must be weighed against the unignorable negatives: single-use plastics, like these straws, contribute to pollution and clutter our oceans with non-biodegradable trash. This is one of the many reasons many countries are enforcing strict laws that either ban the use of plastic straws or charge fees for their use.
>> Read more:
These bans represent a giant leap toward reducing society's reliance on disposable plastics - further driving the point that convenience isn't always worth the cost to our environment. Here are 10 reasons why the plastic straw ban is common in many areas:

1. Plastic straws wreak havoc on the environment and wildlife. The majority of discarded plastics end up in oceans where they can be mistaken as food by turtles and other marine life, causing them severe harm or even tragic death.

2. Plastic straws are not biodegradable. They do take hundreds of years to break down into smaller pieces, eventually becoming microplastics that can then dangerously enter our food chain through contaminated seafood or water sources. To save the environment, consciously use compostable straws made from plant-based materials instead!

3. Plastic straws frequently find their way into oceans and other water sources. Plastic can cause serious harm to marine life when ingested or stuck in their digestive systems. This is a root cause of why these plastic straw bans are so important - they help keep our waterways clean and safe for wildlife.

4. The production of plastic straws requires extreme amounts of energy and resources, as well as the toxic chemicals it releases into the atmosphere. These toxins can cause serious health problems, such as cancer and respiratory illnesses, in humans, animals, and the environment at large. If you adapt to using straws made from natural, eco-friendly materials instead, this life-changing issue can cease to occur.

5. Plastic straws are rarely recycled or reused correctly. They are difficult to recycle due to their size, shape, and material composition. Most frequently, straws become litter and eventually find their way into rivers and oceans, endangering unwitting marine life.

6. Plastic straws are fragile and easily carried away by the wind. This increases the chances that they will travel after use and end up in waterways or on open beaches, where they can be swallowed by wildlife such as birds or fish.

7. By 2050, it is estimated that more plastic will be in the ocean than fish by weight. The water contains approximately 450,000 tons of plastic, while about 4.5 million pounds end up in the sea annually.

8. Among the 10 items that pollute beaches, the main culprit at large are plastic straws. They harm seabirds, turtles, and other wildlife. Let's move toward a new direction away from thoughtlessly polluting our environment, and start to use sustainable straws instead..

9. Single-use plastic straws generate huge amounts of surplus waste - an estimated 500 million plastic straws are used each day in the US alone!

10. Plastic straws are harmful to human health. Toxic chemicals that leach from plastic drinking straws are known to be found in human blood and tissues. These substances are connected with cancer, obesity, birth defects, weakened immune systems, and endocrine disruption, among many others.

What States Have Banned Plastic Straws in the US?

Plastic straws are among the most common disposable items found in restaurants and eateries all over the United States. To reduce plastic waste, some states have taken the initiative to issue plastic straw bans in order to protect our environment.

California Became the First State To Take Actions

California was the first state in the United States to take action on this issue, passing the legislation that prohibits dine-in restaurants from providing customers with single-use plastic straws; unless requested by a customer.
Source: Internet
This law came into effect on January 1st, 2019. California has also proposed additional legislation that will expand its regulations on single-use plastics and packaging, and promote alternatives including compostable materials or reusable packaging.

Oregon, New York, Washington DC, Colorado and Other States

Following California's decision, several states have since implemented a plastic straw ban. Oregon, New York, Washington DC, and Colorado are among the states leading the charge against single-use plastics.

Oregon passed a statewide ban on single-use plastic straws in 2019. Since then, more than 20 cities and counties within Oregon have adopted similar restrictions.

In 2020, New York became one of the first East Coast states to ban plastic straws from restaurants and other food service establishments.
Source: Internet
This was then followed up by Washington DC & Colorado passing their own ordinance that would prohibit restaurants from providing disposable plastic drinking straws, as well as stirrers and cocktail picks made of plastic or paper products. Instead, these states firmly encourage the use of compostable materials or reusable products.

Plastic Straws Ban in Europe

Plastic straws have become the latest target of European governments as part of their efforts to reduce plastic waste. On 3 July 2021, a ban on single-use plastic straws came into effect in the European Union. Plastic plates, cutlery, straws, balloon sticks, and cotton buds cannot be introduced in the marketplaces of the member countries in the EU.

The EU law bans both the sale and distribution of plastic straws and other single-use plastics, such as cutlery, stirrers, plates, and cotton buds. However, this ban does not apply to people with disabilities who need drinking aids or flexible materials like paper or biodegradable plastics.
Source: Internet >> Read More:
As well as banning single-use plastics, several European countries have implemented taxes on non-biodegradable materials such as polystyrene foam and rigid PVC packaging. These measures are aimed at reducing the amount of plastic entering our oceans and landfills in an effort to protect wildlife habitats and prevent further pollution.

Join With EQUO to Comply With Plastic Straws Ban

As the ban on plastic straws spreads across the world, many businesses are looking for ways to comply without sacrificing quality or convenience for their customers. EQUO is here to offer some solutions. EQUO provides biodegradable compostable straws that meet all industry standards while helping to reduce environmental waste.

EQUO's straws provide an easy solution for business owners who are keeping up with current regulations, while still providing a familiar and convenient drinking experience for their consumers. Our products are made from 100% natural materials, which degrade quickly in nature with minimal impact on the environment. Additionally, all of EQUO's products are certified food safe and can be used in both hot and cold beverages without compromising taste or quality.

Some notable EQUO eco-friendly drinking straws:

Grass Straws : These grass straws are made from carefully harvested and handpicked Vietnamese sedge grasses, thereby making them naturally compostable. With their rustic design, grass straws combine sustainable and visually appealing features.

: These Coffee Straws compostable drinking straws are certified compostable. Made from coffee grounds, these beautiful, deep-brown straws leave no noticeable taste and exude the pleasing aroma of freshly brewed coffee.

Coconut Straws : These biodegradable straws are made from real coconut water, and won't add any unwanted sweet taste or unpleasant aroma to your beverages. These straws are completely vegan and entirely scentless, so the original taste of your drink will not differ!

Rice Straws : Made of a combination of rice flour and tapioca starch, these straws provide a non-plastic alternative to conventional plastic straws while being 100% taste-free. Not only are these items fully compostable, but they also give a vintage aesthetic to your beverage. And as an added and unique edge? These organic straws are edible!

Sugarcane Straws : These plant-based compostable straws are made from natural sugarcane fibers. They have sheer brown colors and emit a subtle brown-sugar aroma without the taste. These disposable, biodegradable, and compostable products are genius ways of helping reduce plastic waste while simultaneously taking care of the environment.

>> Read More: We can conclude that plastic straws should continue to be banned, as they have proved to continue to cause serious harm to the environment. With Europe and the US already taking giant leaps and enforcing , it is important for us all to comply with this ban and reject the use of plastic straws in our everyday lives. Instead, let's opt for more equally-accessible but eco-friendly plastic straw bans alternatives to plastic straws, such as those offered by EQUO! Not only will this further reduce plastic waste, but it will also ensure that we have a sustainable future for generations to come. EQUO is a reliable sustainable brand that offers eco-friendly products, such as biodegradable and compostable drinking straws , utensils, and tote bags. Choosing EQUO's products is a conscious way to help the environment and a step towards making this world a better place. So why not make the switch today? Let's all take action together to help build an even more sustainable future with EQUO! Contact Information: Source: http://www3.weforum.org
https://floridadep.gov
https://environment.ec.europa.eu/topics/plastics/single-use-plastics/eu-restrictions-certain-single-use-plastics_en
https://www.globalcitizen.org/en/content/california-plastic-straw-ban-restaurants
EQUO not only offers 100% natural straws as an alternative to plastic, but our straws also come in various sizes and colors that are sure to fit any business or individual's needs. Our 'bulk purchase' option makes it easy for establishments like restaurants, cafes, and bars to source new environmentally friendly straws at a discounted rate- while reducing the amount of single-use plastic being thrown away daily! A win-win situation!

Tags: eco friendly biodegradable straws, eco compostable straws, buy biodegradable straws, where to buy biodegradable straws, biodegradable straw, compostable straw

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Bans On Plastic Straws: Why They Happen And Where They Are

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In recent years, concerns about the necessary protection of our environment have been growing steadily. To combat this increasing problem, countries a

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California’s first plastic bag ban made things worse. Now it’s trying again

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California’s first plastic bag ban made things worse. Now it’s trying again

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Read this article and take this reading comprehension quiz.

Article: https://www.opb.org/article/2024/09/26/california-plastic-bag-ban/

Reading Quiz: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe09kN0XkAELftSDeuGMkprxUizMmmxTchbmq435MkSOZ9rfw/viewform?usp=sf_link

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Google Forms - create and analyze surveys, for free.

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California’s first plastic bag ban made things worse. Now it’s trying again

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California’s first plastic bag ban made things worse. Now it’s trying again

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Read this article and take this reading comprehension quiz.

Article: https://www.opb.org/article/2024/09/26/california-plastic-bag-ban/

Reading Quiz: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe09kN0XkAELftSDeuGMkprxUizMmmxTchbmq435MkSOZ9rfw/viewform?usp=sf_link

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Google Forms - create and analyze surveys, for free.

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Plastic Waste | South Lake Tahoe, CA - Official Website

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Since 2018, single-use plastic foodservice ware items that may only be provided upon request are: cups, bowls, plates, trays, cartons, clamshell containers, cup lids, utensils (forks, knives, spoons, and sporks), chopsticks, straws, and stirrers.

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South Lake Tahoe leads the way as city council approves water bottle ban

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SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - In 2016, the City of San Francisco was the first American municipality to ban the sales of water that comes in plastic bottles. At the time it was called a bold move that was building on a global movement to reduce the huge amount of waste from the billion-dollar plastic bottle industry.

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Hitchcock Project for Visualizing Science

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South Lake Tahoe bans single-use plastic water bottles

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California’s two largest cities ban plastic foam

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San Diego and Los Angeles join hundreds of municipalities nationwide that are phasing out polystyrene.

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Walt Disney World Changes Policy On Paper Straws & Plastic Lids - DVC Shop

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Explore Disney World’s new sustainability policy - no paper straws or plastic lids at quick service spots. Aiming for zero waste by 2030!

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Statement: California’s plastic bag ban update will slash plastic waste

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SACRAMENTO, Calif. - California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed Senate Bill 1053 on Sunday, banning plastic bags from being provided at grocery store checkouts. This move turns off the tap to a notable source of needless plastic waste in California: the plastic grocery bag.

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State Plastic Ban Legislation | US Plastic Bans

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A summary of current legislative action being taken across the United States to reduce plastic usage and mitigate its harmful effects on the environment.

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www.waste360.com needs to review the security of your connection before proceeding.

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A plastic bag ban or charge is a law that restricts the use of lightweight plastic bags at retail establishments. In the early 21st century, there has been a global trend towards the phase-out of lightweight plastic bags.[1][2] Single-use plastic shopping bags, commonly made from low-density polyethylene (LDPE) plastic[citation needed],[3] have traditionally been given for free to customers by stores when purchasing goods: the bags have long been considered a convenient, cheap, and hygienic way of transporting items. Problems associated with plastic bags include use of non-renewable resources (such as crude oil, gas and coal),[4] difficulties during disposal, and environmental impacts. Concurrently with the reduction in lightweight plastic bags, shops have introduced reusable shopping bags.

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Plastic Bans Around the World — Solinatra

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In November 2023, 175 countries agreed to develop legally binding agreements on plastic pollution by 2024 with the development of a Global Plastics Treaty.

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Results So Far From Plastic Bag Bans - Pager Power

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Over 100 countries now have a full or partial ban on single-use plastic bags. We review the results of the plastic bag bans.

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In the face of an escalating global environmental crisis, marked by the ubiquitous presence of plastic pollution, nations around the world are reevaluating their consumption habits to combat the adverse effects of single-use plastics. The decision to finally say goodbye to plastic straws, which are a symbol of a disposable lifestyle that has ruined our seas and ecosystems, is in the front of this movement. Two significant players in the global arena, the United States and Europe, have started independent but related campaigns to reduce the use of plastic straws. In order to better understand the varied ways that each area has taken in its quest for a more sustainable and ecologically conscious future, we will examine the goals, tactics, and results of the plastic straw bans in the US and Europe in this article.

Despite the convenience they provide, the extensive use of plastic straws exacts a staggering ecological toll. Astonishingly, Americans discard a staggering 500 million plastic straws daily, contributing to the mounting environmental crisis. Once discarded, these straws find their way into landfills and oceans, where they pose a grave threat to marine life. Heartbreakingly, marine animals often mistake these plastic remnants for food, a tragic reality vividly depicted in a viral YouTube video featuring a turtle with a straw lodged in its nose. As we grapple with the environmental repercussions of our convenience-oriented culture, it's crucial to explore alternatives. Fortunately, the shift towards sustainability is gaining momentum. Individuals can opt for eco-friendly options such as paper or steel straws, and numerous U.S. cities have taken proactive measures by restricting plastic straw usage unless specifically requested. While legislation alone may not completely resolve the issue, advocating for and implementing laws to ban plastic straws represents a commendable initial stride towards a more sustainable future.

The plastic straw ban refers to the prohibition or restriction imposed on the use, distribution, or sale of plastic straws, stirrers, and sticks. This measure is part of broader efforts to mitigate the environmental impact of single-use plastics, particularly their contribution to pollution in oceans and landfills.

Plastic straw bans have been implemented in various locations globally, ranging from individual cities to entire countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, Taiwan. In Europe, the European Union has taken comprehensive measures to restrict the use of single-use plastics, including plastic straws, as of July 2021.

Signs about the plastic straw ban are often displayed in establishments where the ban is in effect. These signs typically communicate the policy to customers, informing them of the decision to either eliminate plastic straws entirely or provide them only upon request. Such signs play a crucial role in raising awareness and encouraging compliance with the ban, contributing to the broader goal of reducing plastic waste and promoting more sustainable alternatives.

In a collective effort to combat the environmental impact of single-use plastic straws, several U.S. states have taken bold steps towards their prohibition. Notable trailblazers in this movement include California, Maine, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington. These states, driven by a shared commitment to preserving the planet, have implemented bans on plastic straws to curb the ecological damage caused by these seemingly innocuous items.

As part of its commitment to combating plastic pollution, the European Union took a significant step forward on July 3, 2021. On this date, a ban on the sale of single-use plastic plates, cutlery, straws, balloon sticks, cotton buds, cups, food and beverage containers made of expanded polystyrene, and all products made of oxo-degradable plastic came into effect across EU Member States. This marked a decisive move to curtail the environmental impact of these commonly used items, aligning with the EU's broader efforts to foster sustainability and reduce plastic waste.

Meanwhile, on the global stage, the issue of marine plastic waste took center stage at the Group of 20 (G20) summit in Osaka. World leaders acknowledged the severity of the problem and collectively pledged to take "concrete" steps to address the crisis. Indonesia, represented by President Joko Widodo, actively raised concerns about the escalating plastic problem in the region. Recognizing the adverse effects on fisheries, tourism, and various sectors, Indonesia outlined plans to introduce phased bans on single-use plastics. With an ambitious target of achieving complete plastic recycling by 2027, the measures aim to significantly reduce the annual production of 780,000 tons of scrap plastic in the country. In addition to environmental benefits, these initiatives are anticipated to cut down on expenditures related to waste disposal, showcasing a dual commitment to ecological well-being and economic prudence.

Taiwan's commitment to environmental sustainability took a significant step forward in July 2019, with the ban on petroleum-based plastic straws in numerous public spaces. This decisive move is part of a broader initiative to phase out all single-use plastics gradually. The ban aims to eliminate 100 million plastic straws from circulation annually. In Taiwan, where the love for bubble tea fuels a robust industry with over 20,000 drink stores selling more than 100 million drinks annually, the challenge lies in providing viable alternatives to meet the essential need for straws in this cultural context. Taiwanese entrepreneurs are actively exploring diverse disposable plastic straw alternatives, showcasing a commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility in navigating this transition away from traditional single-use plastics.

- Compostable sugarcane straws

Sugarcane straws present a sustainable alternative to traditional plastic straws, crafted from sugarcane fibers, a byproduct of sugar extraction and agricultural waste. Their unique appeal lies in showcasing the natural color and texture of sugarcane pellets. Notably, these straws are entirely home compostable, lacking additional Polylactic Acid (PLA). With the capacity to withstand temperatures up to 90°C, sugarcane straws maintain structural integrity even when in contact with water, ensuring an optimal user experience. Positioned at the intersection of environmental consciousness and agricultural efficiency, sugarcane straws align with circular economy principles, offering a compelling and eco-friendly choice in the evolving landscape of sustainable alternatives.

- Coffee grounds straws

Coffee grounds straws offer a sustainable alternative to plastic, created by blending coffee grounds with biodegradable components like natural resins, plant-based fibers, and starches. Crafted from renewable resources, these straws repurpose coffee byproducts, reducing waste and carbon emissions. Biodegradable in nature, they address plastic pollution concerns. Additionally, coffee grounds straws embody the circular economy, transforming waste into new products, lessening the environmental impact of the coffee industry, and fostering a market for eco-friendly goods.

- Corn starch straws

Corn starch straws present a sustainable and biodegradable alternative, originating from renewable resources like corn starch, water, and other biodegradable components. Molded into a familiar shape akin to traditional plastic straws, these eco-friendly alternatives stand out for their compostability. Unlike persistent traditional plastics, corn starch straws decompose in controlled composting environments in under three months, significantly reducing environmental impact and showcasing their eco-friendliness. Moreover, the decomposition process of these straws is non-toxic, ensuring no harmful gases are released. By the time they complete their decomposition, corn starch straws seamlessly integrate with surrounding compost, leaving no discernible remnants.

- Paper straws

Paper straws boast a rich historical background, serving as one of the earliest forms of biodegradable alternatives. Derived from trees, their plant-based origin aligns with environmentally friendly principles. Composed primarily of paper pulp from wood fibers, they exemplify a plant-based solution. While their absorption of liquid can soften them over time, leading to gradual decomposition into small paper scraps, some variants address this by using chemical coatings like PFAS for waterproofing. However, the introduction of such additives raises concerns about potential harm to both human health and the environment. It's crucial to note that untreated paper straws without additional coatings represent one of the most easily decomposed biodegradable options, particularly suitable for beverages below 60°C.

- Glass straws

Glass straws present a sophisticated and sustainable alternative to single-use plastic, transcending mere functionality to become a statement piece that elevates the aesthetic of establishments like hotels, bars, restaurants, and stores. Beyond style, incorporating glass straws signals a commitment to environmental responsibility. The transparency and purity of glass enhance the drinking experience, offering a clear view of the beverage and complementing the visual appeal of any drink. More than just a straw, it becomes a symbol of sustainable elegance, reflecting the establishment's dedication to quality service and ecological mindfulness.

- Grass straws

Grass straws offer an excellent eco-friendly substitute for plastic counterparts, distinguished by their chemical-free composition and effortless biodegradability. Unlike plastic straws, they contain no toxic materials. After use, simply dispose of them in your garden or compost bin, where they break down seamlessly within just 6 months. The durability of grass straws makes them suitable for any beverage, providing an environmentally conscious and versatile choice for consumers committed to sustainability.

For a more detailed list of plastic straws alternatives, please read more at this article: Plastic straws alternatives: Ways to use less plastic!

In conclusion, the collective effort to transition towards a plastic-free future is both a responsibility and an opportunity for individuals, businesses, and communities alike. The detrimental impact of plastic pollution on our environment and ecosystems demands immediate action. From the implementation of plastic straw bans in various states and countries to the exploration of innovative alternatives like sugarcane, coffee grounds, corn starch, and glass straws, there is a growing array of sustainable choices available. As consumers, embracing these alternatives and supporting eco-friendly initiatives can contribute significantly to reducing our reliance on single-use plastics. By choosing compostable and biodegradable options like grass straws or advocating for policies that promote sustainability, we not only minimize our ecological footprint but also send a powerful message - that a plastic-free world is not just a vision but an achievable reality. It's time to take action, make informed choices, and collectively work towards a future where plastic is no longer a threat to our planet.

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Plastic straws ban in the US and Europe: 3 things you need to know - renouvo

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In the face of an escalating global environmental crisis, marked by the ubiquitous presence of plastic pollution, nations around the world are reevaluating

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Did plastic straw bans work? Yes, but not in the way you’d think.

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Plastic straws used to be “environment enemy number one.”

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Back to Search Results

(Mar. 23, 2021) On January 1, 2021, a plastic ban took effect in China that prohibits restaurants throughout the country from providing single-use plastic straws and stores in the major cities from providing plastic shopping bags. These are among the restrictions on the production, sale, and use of single-use plastic products set out in a policy document jointly issued by the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) and the Ministry of Ecology and Environment on January 16, 2020. ( The Opinions on Further Strengthening the Cleanup of Plastic Pollution (NDRC Opinions).) Provinces throughout the country have since issued their plans for implementing the national policy.
Plastic Bans
The NDRC Opinions lay out the following five-year roadmap to restrict the use of plastic products such as shopping bags, straws, and utensils by 2020, 2022, and 2025, respectively.

Nondegradable plastic bags: These bags will be banned in shopping malls, supermarkets, pharmacies, book stores, and food takeout services in the major cities by the end of 2020, and in other cities and towns by 2022. Markets selling fresh produce are exempt from the ban until 2025.

Single-use plastic utensils: By the end of 2020, restaurants throughout the country will be prohibited from using nondegradable single-use plastic straws. Other single-use plastic utensils will be banned for on-site dining in the cities by the end of 2020 and in the counties by 2022, and their use in takeout in the cities must be reduced by 30% by 2025.

Single-use plastic items in hotels: Star-rated hotels throughout the country will be prohibited from voluntarily providing these items by 2022. The restriction will be expanded to other hotels and homestays by 2025.

Plastic postal and courier packages: Postal and courier services in specified developed areas, including Beijing, Shanghai, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Fujian, and Guangdong, will be prohibited from using nondegradable plastic packaging bags by 2022. This ban will be applied nationwide by 2025.

The production of cosmetic products containing plastic microbeads is also banned, according to the NDRC Opinions, and the sale of such products will be banned by the end of 2022. Other plastic products that are banned from being produced or sold in China include (1) ultra-thin plastic shopping bags with a thickness of less than 0.025 mm, (2) polyethylene agricultural mulching films with a thickness of less than 0.01 mm, and (3) single-use foam clamshells and plastic cotton swabs.
Penalties
Recent revisions to China's Law on the Prevention and Control of Environmental Pollution Caused by Solid Waste (Solid Waste Law) took effect on September 1, 2020. Under this law, local authorities may impose a fine of 10,000 to 100,000 yuan (about US$1,545 to $15,460) on those failing to comply with the state's restrictions on the use of nondegradable plastic bags and other single-use plastic products. (Solid Waste Law art. 106.)
Solid Waste Imports
The NDRC Opinions also mention that importing plastic waste into the country is completely banned. China announced the plan to phase out solid waste imports in 2017, and a full ban on importing all materials it classifies as solid waste took effect on January 1, 2021. Under the Solid Waste Law, for violations of the law against importing solid waste into Chinese territory, the customs agency will order the return of the waste and impose a fine of 500,000 to 5 million yuan (about US$77,305 to $773,050). (Art. 115.)

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Zhang, Laney. China: Single-Use Plastic Straw and Bag Ban Takes Effect. 2021. Web Page. https://www.loc.gov/item/global-legal-monitor/2021-03-23/china-single-use-plastic-straw-and-bag-ban-takes-effect/.

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Zhang, L. (2021) China: Single-Use Plastic Straw and Bag Ban Takes Effect. [Web Page] Retrieved from the Library of Congress, https://www.loc.gov/item/global-legal-monitor/2021-03-23/china-single-use-plastic-straw-and-bag-ban-takes-effect/.

MLA citation style:

Zhang, Laney. China: Single-Use Plastic Straw and Bag Ban Takes Effect. 2021. Web Page. Retrieved from the Library of Congress, <www.loc.gov/item/global-legal-monitor/2021-03-23/china-single-use-plastic-straw-and-bag-ban-takes-effect/>.

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China: Single-Use Plastic Straw and Bag Ban Takes Effect

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(Mar. 23, 2021) On January 1, 2021, a plastic ban took effect in China that prohibits restaurants throughout the country from providing single-use plastic straws and stores in the major cities from providing plastic shopping bags.

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The Last Plastic Straw encourages individuals to refuse plastic straws, and advocate for legislation to stop plastic pollution.