Just one month until single-use plastic banned in Wales – warns ACS

The Welsh Government has confirmed that the upcoming ban on single-use plastics will now go live on 30 October 2023.

From this date, retailers must stop the sale and supply of the following single-use plastic products:

1. Plates – this includes paper plates with a laminated plastic surface
2. Cutlery – for example forks, spoons, knives
3. Drinks stirrers – those designed for stirring drinks or liquid food
4. Cups made of expanded or foamed extruded polystyrene
5. Takeaway food containers made of expanded or foamed extruded polystyrene
6. Sticks for balloons
7. Plastic-stemmed cotton buds
8. Drinking straws

It will be against the law to sell or give for free any of the products listed above to consumers in Wales. The Welsh Government is advising businesses to take steps now to start planning for the new law by: reducing stock levels of these products, switching to reusable alternatives or where this isn’t possible look for non-plastic single-use alternatives.

The Welsh Government has published guidance for businesses which is available to view here. More information on the regulations can be found here.

“Local shops are committed to making a positive difference in the communities that they serve and over the years retailers have been proactive in trying to reduce waste in the stores and communities,” said ACS chief executive James Lowman.

“We are urging retailers to familiarise themselves and their colleagues with the guidance that has been published so that they can ensure that their businesses are prepared for the upcoming ban on single-use plastics.”

ACS is reminding retailers about the upcoming ban on single-use plastic products in England, which is due to come into force on 1 October 2023. More information on the regulations can be found here.