Ban On Polystyrene Containers From Today
The ban was to come into effect from January 1, 2021 however a grace period was given for retailers and manufacturers to exhaust their current stock.
Sunday 01 August 2021 | 10:08
The complete ban on the use, manufacture and import of polystyrene containers for food packaging will come into effect from today- August 1, 2021.
Violators could face up to two years in jail or fines up to $150,000.
The ban was to come into effect from January 1, 2021 however a grace period was given for retailers and manufacturers to exhaust their current stock.
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This includes all import and export of polystyrene cups, plates, containers and trays.
Ministry of Environment permanent secretary Joshua Wycliffe said there has been enough awareness created on this.
“Polystyrene products are found almost everywhere in Fiji. Whether it is seen as environmental litter or used as food packaging material in the food industries,” he said.
“The problem of polystyrene litter is most evident during festivals such as the Hibiscus festival or the smaller carnivals that are held around the country.
“The ban on polystyrene will help curb the growing concern of polystyrene pollution in our waterways, oceans and environment,” Mr Wycliffe said.
“Banning of polystyrene is an added response to preserving our marine ecosystems, which is in a serious decline due to the growing concerns of pollution.”
Edited by Selita Rabuku
Feedback: shalveen.chand@fijisun.com.fj
