Oceana welcomes the progress of Congress to regulate the consumption of single-use plastics in the country through the approval of the preliminary ruling on the matter in the Congress Committee of Andean, Amazonian and Afro-Peruvian, Environment and Ecology.
The marine conservation organization considers positive the scope of the opinion that will cover single-use plastics, and not only plastic bags, but the text should be strengthened for its effectiveness.
The solution is a change of habits to reduce the indiscriminate consumption of disposable products. In the Peruvian market there are no alternatives to bags that biodegrade in aquatic environments, so greater emphasis should be placed on promoting the use of long-lasting reusable bags, such as cloth.
The acquisition, use, entry or commercialization of plastic bags and sorbets and technopor containers should be immediately prohibited on beaches, an environment vulnerable to plastic pollution, which makes up to 95% of marine litter, according to the ONU. For businesses, a short period is required to implement this measure. For example, in Chile the prohibition of the delivery of plastic bags in supermarkets will be effective from six months.
In addition, adequate terms are required, between two and four years; with progressive goals for restrictions on the manufacture, import and marketing of single-use plastic products, including technopor; since these measures do require adaptation of the industry and businesses.
Finally, the most appropriate option to generate an economic incentive that reduces the consumption of plastic bags is the creation of a fixed-rate tax (for example, 10 cents per bag received), which generates funds to promote environmental education and research programs.
Oceana is the largest international advocacy organization dedicated solely to ocean conservation. Oceana is rebuilding abundant and biodiverse oceans by winning science-based policies in countries that control one-third of the world’s wild fish catch. With more than 225 victories that stop overfishing, habitat destruction, pollution, and the killing of threatened species like turtles and sharks, Oceana’s campaigns are delivering results. A restored ocean means that 1 billion people can enjoy a healthy seafood meal, every day, forever. Together, we can save the oceans and help feed the world. Visit www.oceana.org to learn more.