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The government’s war on plastic bags continues with the public being called upon for comment on proposed amendments to current legislation.
Among the most important amendments is the ban on the manufacture, trade, and distribution of domestically produced and imported plastic carrier bags and plastic flat bags that do not conform to specifications for use in South Africa.
The Department of Environment, Forestry, and Fisheries said that amendments focus on “post-consumer recyclate” material generated by households and other end users.
In terms of the proposed amendments, plastic carrier bags and plastic flat bags must be made from a minimum of 50% “post-consumer recyclate” from 1 January 2023.
This moves to 75% from 2025 and by 2027 all plastic carrier and flat bags must comprise 100% recycled materials.
“Plastic waste has not only become a challenge in diverting it from going to landfill sites but has grown to be one of the most problematic waste streams that continues to harm the environment,” said Minister, Barbara Creecy.
She said the amendments emanate from the review of all policies affecting plastic bags in the country and whether the intended objectives of addressing the plastic bag litter problem and the promotion of the re-use and recycling of plastic carrier bags have been achieved.
Members of the public wanting to comment on the amendments, which were published in the Government Gazette this month, have until 7 September to do so.
