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Environmental Policy

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 30 November 2021

Tuesday, 30 November 2021

Ceisteanna (169)

Sorca Clarke

Ceist:

169. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the status of the banning of single use plastics; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [59122/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

The Waste Action Plan for a Circular Economy, published in September 2020, outlines the measures Ireland is taking under the Single Use Plastics Directive (EU 2019/904) to substantially reduce the amount of single use plastic items we use and to sustainably manage the waste arising from those we do. From 3rd July this year single use plastic cutlery, plates, stirrers, straws, balloon sticks and cotton bud sticks may not be placed on the Irish market. This ban also applies to single use expanded polystyrene cups and food containers and all products containing oxo-degradable plastic. Other measures arising from SUP Directive will be implemented in the coming years, including the introduction of new Extended Producer Responsibility schemes for material such as tobacco products and fishing gear.

The introduction of a Deposit Return Scheme for plastic beverage bottles and aluminium cans will assist in reducing single use plastics and will help Ireland meet EU targets while promoting a wider circular economy. On 17 November, Minister Ryan signed the Separate Collection (Deposit Return Scheme) Regulations 2021, providing the legal framework for the scheme which will become operational across the country in Quarter 3 of 2022.

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