New Zealand Bans Most Plastic Bags and Cutlery as Part of Anti-Single-Use Plastic Campaign

New Zealand started banning thicker plastic bags in 2019 and is now banning thin plastic bags, plastic straws, and plastic cutlery.
The ban on thin plastic bags alone is expected to reduce the use of 150 million bags per year in New Zealand.
New Zealanders dispose of almost 800,000 tons of waste in landfills annually, so the government hopes the bans will encourage more reusable options.
Some are concerned the bans may lead to increased use of paper bags, but officials believe the environmental benefits outweigh that risk.
The government plans to educate businesses about the new policy and may fine companies that do not comply.