In recent years, with the rapid growth of the food delivery and express delivery industries, the use of plastic tableware, packaging films, and disposable plastic bags has become increasingly prevalent in daily life. While these lightweight and convenient plastic products bring ease to modern living, they have also led to the resurgence of “white pollution.” Studies show that plastics are difficult to decompose naturally, and if not properly recycled, they persist as permanent pollutants in the environment, accumulating over time. Data indicates that the average person uses over 200 plastic bags annually, and if disposed of in landfills, they can take 100 to 400 years to degrade.
In January of this year, approved by the State Council, the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) and the Ministry of Ecology and Environment (MEE) jointly issued the Opinions on Further Strengthening Plastic Pollution Control (hereinafter referred to as the Opinions), outlining a comprehensive strategy for tackling plastic pollution. The Opinions propose a series of measures, including the phased prohibition and restriction of certain plastic products, the promotion of recyclable and biodegradable alternatives, increased supply of green products, standardized plastic waste recycling systems, and the establishment of robust management mechanisms to ensure effective plastic pollution control.
Expansion of Green Product Capacity
In fact, China first implemented its “Plastic Restriction Order” in June 2008, banning the production, sale, and use of plastic shopping bags thinner than 0.025 millimeters nationwide. It also mandated a paid system for plastic bags in supermarkets, shopping malls, and other retail venues, prohibiting free distribution.
Statistics show that from 2008 to 2016, the use of plastic shopping bags in supermarkets and stores decreased by more than two-thirds, cumulatively reducing consumption by approximately 1.4 million tons.
Upon reviewing policy documents, the reporter noted that the newly formulated reduction and substitution plan for disposable plastic products differs significantly from previous plastic pollution control measures.