Europe
Plastic packaging of fruits and vegetables is banned in France on the first day of the year
Prothom-alo desk
Published: 01 January 2022, 18:41
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People are buying fruits from a local market. Fontaine-sus-Bois, Paris, France
People are buying fruits from a local market. Fontaine-sus-Bois, Paris, France File Photo: Reuters
A ban has been imposed in France on New Year's Day. Under the new law, plastic packaging on most fruits and vegetables has been banned.
The BBC reports that 30 types of food, including cucumbers, lemons and oranges, have been banned from being wrapped in plastic. However, discounts will be given for large quantities as well as cut or processed fruits.
French President Emmanuel Macho called the ban "a real revolution." He said the move was part of a commitment by France to phase out disposable plastic products by 2040.
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In France, one-third of fruits and vegetables are sold wrapped in plastic. Government officials estimate that this will reduce the use of 100 million disposable plastic products each year.
The Ministry of Environment has issued a statement announcing the new law. It says France uses "massive" amounts of single-use plastic. The new ban aims to reduce the use of such plastic products and, as an alternative, increase the amount of other materials or recyclable packaging.
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The ban is part of Makho's multi-year project. In 2021, the country banned plastic pipes, cups and spoons, knives and disposable food boxes.
After 2022, it will be mandatory to install potable water taps in public places to reduce the use of plastic bottles. All types of publications will be shipped without plastic wrap. And fast food restaurants will not be able to offer free plastic toys.
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Cherry, tomato, green bean and peach plastic wrap will not be sold in the country after June 2023, according to Reuters. And by the end of 2024, indie, asparagus, mushrooms and some salad and herb plastic wrappers will not be sold. And after 2026, raspberries, strawberries and other delicious berries will not be sold in plastic wrap.
Several other European countries have recently imposed similar sanctions. Earlier last month, Spain banned the sale of plastic wrapped fruits and vegetables from 2023.