Ban on super thin bags succeeds in curtailing use of plastic bags in China

04-Jul-08

China had imposed a ban on super-thin plastic bags with effect from June 1. After successful initiation of this ban, China has succeeded in discouraging use of the bags. Waste Plastics Recycling Committee of China Plastics Processing Industry Association has reported that from almost 1 bln pieces until June, China has consumed 200-300 mln pieces in June- almost 66% less plastic bags. In June alone, Shoppers consumed 80% less plastics bags, and distribution of bags in retail stores in marketplace was down by 50%. However, the cutback in consumption has led to halving of sales force at the 60,000 Chinese plastic bags enterprises. Part of these processors have decided to convert their business to food bags or other productions, while some are expecting that more lenient policy may come to the rescue.