Single-use plastic ban comes into force today

Businesses warned: 'Show transition plan or face fines'

A ban on 10 commonly used single-use plastic items has come into force on the Isle of Man today (19 October).

Government's described it as a 'major milestone' in making sure we have an environment people can be proud of.

Businesses can no longer sell, or distribute, things like straws, carrier bags, cutlery, plates, or polystyrene cups and containers.

Anyone with stocks of the banned items is asked to 'demonstrate their plan' to transition to greener alternatives or risk facing a fine.

Most plastic is produced using oil and many of the resulting items are used and discarded in seconds but can take hundreds of years to break down.

Tynwald members voted unanimously to ban the sale, distribution and supply of 10 of the most commonly used SUP items - which have sustainable alternatives - in October 2022.

MHK Michelle Haywood is the political member for the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture. 

She said: "This is a major milestone in our mission to ensure we have an environment to be proud of now, and in the future.

"Through the actions of government, businesses and individuals, we are transitioning away from unnecessary plastics and improving sustainability across the public and private sectors."

Also included in the ban are personal care products containing microbeads, balloon sticks and products made from oxo-degradable plastic.

'Bag for life'-style plastic bags and bags used for uncooked meat and fish are exempt from the rule as are plastic straws and cotton buds used in medical settings.

The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture says it will continue to support businesses after the ban.

Speaking on Manx Radio Breakfast, Minister Clare Barber says there's 'no question' the ban could be rolled out to include other items further down the line:

Help and advice is available by emailing plastics@gov.im, calling 685835, or visiting netzero.im.