Partial ban on single-use plastic products comes into force

On 3 July, the Law on Reducing the Consumption of Products Containing Plastics, promoted by the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Regional Development (VARAM), entered into force, banning the further placing on the market and distribution of several single-use plastic products, while offering consumers products made from more environmentally friendly materials.

Minister Artūrs Toms Plešs (AP!): “Every choice we make leaves a mark on nature, and every time we choose in favour of the environment, it is a small victory in the fight against pollution. We cannot yet live completely without plastic, but the plan is to phase it out gradually and consume responsibly. The new law is just one point in the plan on the way to a greener future, and the ministry is also working in parallel on other initiatives that will accelerate the pace of green policy.”

The draft law applies to single-use plastic products for which more environmentally friendly alternatives are already available, such as cotton buds, plastic cutlery and plates, drinking straws, stirrers, balloon sticks, food and beverage packaging made of expanded polystyrene foam, as well as products made of oxo-degradable plastic.

However, cups are not yet banned, but measures must be taken to reduce their consumption. The obligation to reduce consumption and establish producer responsibility systems also applies to plastic-containing fishing gear.  

Important information for retailers: stores may sell their existing stocks after 3 July as well, if these products were placed on the market by 2 July 2021 (manufactured, brought in from other EU countries or imported).

The ministry, for its part, urges consumers always to choose more sustainable products that can be reused or that are made from more environmentally friendly materials, as plastic consumption has grown rapidly in recent years and has a negative impact on the environment, particularly the aquatic environment, and on human health.

More information - https://www.varam.gov.lv/lv/jaunums/stajas-speka-vienreizlietojamo-plastmasas-izstradajumu-dalejs-aizliegums

Author:

Ministry of Environmental Protection and Regional Development

varam.gov.lv