ISSUE № 12 , OCT 2018
Jamaica and Grenada lead initiatives on Waste Control in the Caribbean !
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In a bold move , the intentions in Jamaica is the introduction of a ban on single use plastic bags , plastic straws and Styrofoam in a bid to reduce the impact plastic is having on the environment . According to Daryl Vaz , the minister without portfolio in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation , the target date is 1st January 2019 in keeping with similar efforts globally . Impacted will be the import , manufacture and distribution of plastic bags smaller than 24x24 inches ( 60x60cm ). The expectation is that reusable carrier bags will be the viable option . Not immediately impacted will be those single-use plastic bags “ utilised to maintain public health or food safety standards ” such as those used to package raw meats , flour , rice , sugar and baked goods such as bread . Styrofoam will also be prohibited but local manufacturers and importers will be able to apply to the National Environment and Planning Agency ( NEPA ) for extension in their specific cases .
The Government of Grenada meanwhile is implementing a far-reaching Non-Biodegradable Waste Control Act , which begins with the complete ban on the importation of polystyrene commonly referred to as ‘ Styrofoam ’ phasing in effective September 1 , 2018 . The Act will also attempt to usher in the banning of all single use plastics such as shopping bags , cutlery , plates , straws and cups by February 1 , 2019 . In Grenada many hotels , restaurants and stores have already transitioned to the use of alternative biodegradable products . Altogether these progressive actions will serve to regulate the use of nonbiodegradable products , with a view to reducing the negative environmental impacts and improving in both countries . In supporting picture from Columbia a young lady is dressed in a recycled dress made of Styrofoam cups and plastic forks and spoons . Here again is the list for the Beat Plastic Challenge !
� Carry your re-usable shopping bag to the grocery .
� Carry drinking water in re-usable bottles as opposed to single use plastic
� Reduce your purchase of bottled water without reducing water intake .
� Stop using plastic straws even in restaurants .
� Give up gum . Gum is made of a synthetic rubber .
� Purchase products in cardboard instead of plastics which is easier to recycle .
� Reduce dependence on single use plastic ware .
� Walk with your re-useable cup when purchasing hot beverages .
� Pack your meals in re-usable containers as opposed to single use .
� Avoid the purchase of food in pointless packaging .
� Reduce , Re-use and Recycle and even Refuse Plastic where you can .
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Support companies making an effort to reduce the use of single use plastics