Change in behaviour linked to plastic use

Behavioural change is essential when dealing with the issue of plastic shopping bags, says Minister for Environment, Conservation and Climate Change John Pundari.
Pundari said plastic shopping bag supply chains needed to be properly defined with market needs.
He has already announced a complete ban on the import, manufacture and use of all plastic shopping bags in the country.
He has given companies and industries involved in the business of plastic shopping bags to come up with eco-friendly alternatives.
“Big shopping centres where purchases are made in large quantities can be suitable for different sizes of check-out bags,” Pundari said.
“Small retail shops where items are purchased in small quantities can be suitable for paper bags.”
The ban comes into effect in November next year.
“Talking needs to stop and action needs to be taken so that a real sense of behavioural change in the market is triggered,” Pundari said.
“Reviews and amendments can be made progressively.”
The intention by the government to ban plastic shopping bags was announced in June this year.
An 18-month grace period was given to companies and industries to prepare for the ban.