Thin Plastic Bags Will Be Banned in New Zealand

Many states, cities, and municipalities worldwide have banned various harmful single-use plastics. However, New Zealand recently became the first country to ban thin plastic grocery bags nationwide. The ban also applies to single-use plastic straws and silverware. New Zealand banned thicker plastic grocery bags in 2019. Officials say the 2019 ban has prevented over one billion plastic bags from being used. The additional ban on thin plastic bags (such as those used for loose produce) could help the country prevent an additional 150 million plastic bags from being used each year. 

An island country located in the Pacific Ocean, New Zealand may be especially susceptible to the effects of Climate change. According to the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA), “two-thirds of New Zealanders live within 5 kilometers of the coast.” Rising sea levels, increased storms, and marine Pollution will affect many residents. Climate change will also adversely affect New Zealand’s native plants and animals. Biodiversity is being lost planet-wide at an alarming rate, due largely to the effects of humans on the environment. 

In 2020, New Zealand declared a climate emergency. The government pledged to become carbon neutral by 2025. While banning plastics is only part of the equation, most plastics are made from fossil fuels. These raw goods need to be extracted and then processed to produce plastics. Additionally, plastics release greenhouse gasses as they break down. 

New Zealand hopes that by banning single-use plastics, they will be able to educate people about the harm plastic Pollution does to our planet. Many people already bring reusable shopping bags to stores. Now, stores are also beginning to sell reusable mesh produce bags. Other simple ways to help reduce plastic Pollution include bringing your own cup and straw to beverage shops, using Tupperware instead of sandwich bags, and recycling correctly. 

Sign this petition to Urge the United States to Ban Single-Use Plastic Nationwide!

Make Some Noise Tee by Tiny Rescue: Climate Collection

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