The ban on petroleum based single use plastics under the control of The Disposable Plastics Act (2020) remains in place and tests are being done on products being used to determine whether they comply with the law.
That is the word from the Ministry of Maritime Affairs & Blue Economy (MMABE) which also said anyone found guilty of the offence faced a stiff fine and/or imprisonment.
“Petroleum based plastics pose a hazard to marine life, including the fish we eat and turtles that nest on our beaches. Furthermore, it affects the capacity for our fisherfolk to make a living. The public is also reminded under this Act, single-use petroleum-based plastics are prohibited in both import and use here in Barbados,” said a media release.
“The Ministry is safeguarding the interests of the public on this matter by having a number of tests done on products being used in Barbados to determine if they comply with the legislation.”
Anyone who imports such items, in violation of the law, is guilty of an offence and liable on summary conviction to a fine of $100 000 or face imprisonment for a term of one year or both. Similar punishment applies to individuals and businesses who manufacture, distribute or offer those banned items for sale.
The Ministry of Maritime Affairs and the Blue Economy also cautioned against products labelled “biodegradable”, “environmentally friendly”, or other similar wording, noting “while some items may have such labels, they may still contain petroleum elements”.
Items listed in the Act, (straws, bags, cups and plates, etc.) clearly stating “HDPE” i.e. – LDPE; PP, and PS or Polystyrene admit to being petroleum-based plastics and should not be used, the notice said. (PR/SAT)
