Vol. 436 No. 8
60 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for the Environment his views on the replacement of plastic bags by decomposable bags in food stores and otherwise throughout the country; whether he is taking any steps to encourage this practice; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
The use of degradable alternatives for containers and packaging was the subject of a feasibility study commissioned by my Department and published in September, 1991. The study concluded that the environmental case for extensive promotion of degradable plastic has not been proven. It recommended a more broadly based approach to waste and litter reduction and I intend that this should be reflected in the National Recycling Strategy which is at present being prepared.
