Single-use plastics banned in Thailand

Over the next couple of years, the country will ban plastic bags and utensils, replacing them with substitutes made from eco-friendly materials.

The ban on single-use plastics will be made effective in Thailand in 2021. The country will gradually give up various types of plastic products that have the most environmental impact, including plastic bags and various micro-granules. 

These measures are certainly justified as Thailand is currently in sixth place in terms of contribution to plastic ocean pollution. 

Both the sales and manufacturing of single-use plastic items will be banned. The ban will be gradually introduced: plastic utensils, bags, and food containers will be completely banned in the country by 2022. However, single-use bags will already be replaced by paper or fabric alternatives in Thai stores next year. 

Retail chains including 7-Eleven and HomePro have already announced their compliance with the new program directed towards reducing plastic pollution.

Other countries that have also decided to ban single-use plastics include Canada, India and countries in the European Union.