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Press Release - Plastic Bag Ban 28.09.2020
Plastic bags ban a step closer for 'green' Alderney
Alderney's ban on single-use plastic bags is expected to become law early next year after the island's Policy & Finance Committee (P&F) approved a draft Projet de Loi.
The law will prohibit the supply of single-use plastic bags to consumers by retailers, restaurants and delivery services but does not apply to 'bags for life', black waste sacks, pet waste bags or packaging in which goods are sealed or contained before sale.
The ban will also include 'biodegradable' bags because there is uncertainty about how well they degrade and Alderney does not have the facilities to process them. However, exemptions include the supply of fish, meat and duty-free items.
A Working Group consisting of Alderney Chamber of Commerce, Alderney Wildlife Trust, States Member Annie Burgess, States Works and Economic Development sought the views of the island's retailers with feedback indicating support for an island-wide ban.
Last year, Alderney committed to the Blue Islands Charter which listed a number of objectives including a ban on single-use plastic entering the island, in particular to protect the marine environment.
P&F has now asked St James Chambers, which drafted the proposed law, to carry out a final check before seeking pre-vetting from the Ministry of Justice. It will then be presented to the full States of Alderney for final agreement.
Island Hall staff will prepare public information about what is covered by the legislation and although the States will have powers to inspect outlets and enforce the ban, the legislation is viewed more as 'good practice' and an endorsement of Alderney's green credentials.
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