Govt. to ban seven single use plastic products

• They are straws, mixers, yoghurt cups and spoons, plates, cups, knives, forks, garlands and string hopper mats made of plastic
• Ban will be effective from June 1st, says Minister Bandula Gunawardena

By Sandun A Jayasekera

The Cabinet that met on Monday has decided to ban the importing, selling, using and distribution of seven single use plastic products effective from June 1st, 2023, Cabinet spokesman, Mass Media, Transport and Highways Minister Bandula Gunawardena said yesterday.   

They are straws, mixers, yogurt cups and spoons, plates, cups, knives, forks, garlands and string hopper mats made of plastic.   

“This is another step taken in the process to protect the environment. The production and use of plastic pose a huge threat to the environment. More than 50% of solid waste dumped on the roadside and at rubbish dumps are plastic products, he said.   

The banning of these plastic products has been recommended by an expert committee appointed by the Cabinet.