Single Use Plastics Ban
Ban On Single Use Plastics Comes Into Force
Hartlepool Borough Council’s Public Protection team are reminding local businesses, such as shops, restaurants and takeaways that they can no longer supply certain single-use plastic items to the public.
The national ban, which came into force on 1st October 2023 covers a range of plastic items, such a polystyrene cups and trays. Businesses may face fines and prosecution if they fail to comply with the new rules.
Research shows people across England use 2.7 billion items of mostly plastic single use cutlery and 721 million single-use plates every year, but only 10% of these are recycled. If 2.7 billion pieces of cutlery were lined up, they would go round the world more than eight-and-a-half times.
The ban covers online and over the counter sales and includes all types of single use plastic and items which are wholly or partly made from plastic. Businesses are prohibited from supplying existing stock after 1st of October.
Common items which are now banned include single use plastic cutlery, trays, plates, bowls, and balloon sticks, as well as types of polystyrene cups and food containers used to supply food which is ready to consume, although certain exemptions apply.
After introducing the ban, Environment Minister Rebecca Pow said “This new ban is the next big step in our mission to crack down on harmful plastic waste. It will protect the environment and help to cut litter – stopping plastic pollution dirtying our streets and threatening our wildlife.”
A spokesperson for the council said “Hartlepool Borough Council welcomes the ban on these items as it reduces unnecessary waste that is harmful to the environment”.
For further information please view the below guidance notes or contact us using the details provided below.
