Government to explore ban on oxo-degradable plastics
The UK Government is considering introducing a ban on types of plastics that can breakdown naturally, following an evidence-gathering consultation into the environmental impacts of plastics and alternative materials.
Oxo-degradable plastics have proven controversial for years
The Government launched a consultation back in July 2019, seeking evidence on the potential implementation of standards for bio-based, biodegradable and compostable plastics, based on their impact on the environment.
In particular, the consultation aimed to gain an informed understanding of the impacts of “oxo-degradable” plastics. Oxo-degradable plastics are either bio-based or fossil-fuel-based plastics that have been designed to degrade by oxidation.