Single-Use Plastics Out

France has taken several major steps to reduce plastic packaging. One of the first changes was a ban on plastic bags back in 2017. However, as some retailers are still using them, the French Government has now made it illegal to import or manufacture plastic bags.

The removal of plastic packaging for fruit and vegetables has been phased in, with the target of fully prohibiting use by 2026. In addition, all plastics used must be 100% recycled by next year.

Refill Options Replace Single-Use Bottles

To reduce plastic bottles, public areas and buildings need to have water refill stations. In addition, cafes and restaurants have to offer glasses or jugs of water for free. They also have to provide reusable crockery and cutlery. This is part of a wider project to promote refill, reuse and repair principles as the preferred option.

Circular Economy Law

These measures are all part of France’s Circular Economy Law, which has a target to completely ban single-use plastic by 2040. The consensus is that significant, and sometimes controversial, steps are needed to address the challenge of plastic waste.

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Here in the UK, the range of banned single-use plastic products is due to expand in 2025. What’s more plastic taxes are driving more to producers and retailers to use at least 30% recycled plastic or alternative packaging materials. What would you like to see on the banned list?