The Local Government Association (LGA) has expressed concerns that businesses may not be fully aware of the new ban on certain single-use plastic items, which will take effect this Sunday, October 1.
According to Localgov.co.uk the ban will prohibit businesses from selling or offering single-use plastic plates, trays, bowls, cutlery, and polystyrene containers for ready-to-consume food and drink, as well as plastic balloon sticks.
The LGA warns that failure to comply with the new regulations will result in increased enforcement costs for councils.
This comes at a time when trading standards teams are already facing resource and workforce pressures.
Additionally, local authorities will have to continue managing the disposal of these banned materials.
The LGA, a cross-party organization, has been urging the Government to introduce Extended Producer Responsibility. This would incentivize producers to create more recyclable packaging.
Cllr Darren Rodwell, the LGA environment spokesperson, stated that while councils believe businesses want to comply with the new regulations, there is concern that some local businesses and consumers are not fully aware of the upcoming ban.
He encouraged everyone to familiarize themselves with the materials impacted by the new regulations.
