Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 April 2018
457. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if a ban on plastic straws will be introduced in favour of biodegradable straws; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17501/18]
View answerOn 16 January 2018 the Commission published its European Strategy for Plastics in the Circular Economy. The strategy focuses on plastics production and use and sets a goal of ensuring all plastic packaging is recyclable by 2030.
Recently, I wrote to the European Commissioner with responsibility for the environment to welcome the plastics strategy. I assured him Ireland fully embraced the ambitions of the new strategy. I asked the Commission to focus, in particular, on the most difficult non-recyclable plastics such as soft wrapping, film and single use items such as coffee cups and plastic straws. I am determined to make sure these products, if they come onto the market here or elsewhere in Europe, will be recycled or biodegradable and that they will not go into landfill sites.
I am looking forward to the Commission proposing within the next month EU-wide actions to tackle single use plastic items. I believe that working proactively with our European colleagues will achieve a greater environmental benefit.
