Wales Bans Single-Use Plastics, Likely to Increase Takeaway Prices Amid Eco-Friendly Switch

The ban on single-use plastic items, which is in effect from today, aims to reduce plastic waste; however, businesses warn of supply shortages and cost increases for eco-friendly alternatives.

• The ban on single-use plastics has come into effect in Wales, following similar bans in England and Scotland. The Welsh government's goal is to reduce plastic waste, with a particular focus on takeaway supplies such as forks and polystyrene trays.
• Businesses, especially takeaways on Caroline Street in Cardiff, have had to switch to more expensive, eco-friendly alternatives. These include products made of wood, corn starch, and recyclable cartons, leading to increased costs.
• The scarcity of eco-friendly supplies in the market due to the sudden demand surge has posed challenges for businesses. Some businesses are worried about supply shortages as everyone is trying to source these items.
• In addition to the ban on single-use items such as plates, cutlery, drink stirrers, cups, and takeaway food containers, the government plans to extend the ban to single-use carrier bags and polystyrene lids for cups in the next phase, predicted to come into force before the end of 2026.
• Even though the shift to eco-friendly alternatives incurs additional costs to businesses and potentially to customers, it is generally viewed positively, with some businesses calling it 'the right direction'. There is also a hope that once the switch becomes universal, prices of these sustainable products will eventually come down.

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