Chinese government plans to impose limits on plastic bag use

With effect from June 1, the Chinese government will impose limits on the use of plastic bags, as part of its dual campaign to protect the environment and save energy. In a circular posted on the central government's Web site on Tuesday, the General Office of the State Council ordered a ban on the production, sale and use of ultra-thin bags(defined as less than 0.025 mm thick) as of June 1. Further, supermarkets and shops will be banned from giving free plastic bags to customers as of that date. On the government level, steps are being taken to promote recycling: * Environmental protection departments will be required to step up waste recycling and establish technical criteria for the process of collecting, delivering, storing and recycling plastic bags. * Science and technology departments have been directed to study ways to add value to used plastics. * Financial authorities have been urged to make greater use of taxes to control the use of plastic bags and promote recycling.