|
answer text |
<p>Our priority is preventing plastic from entering the environment in the first place,
be that the marine or terrestrial environment. The Resources and Waste Strategy, published
in December last year, sets out our plans to eliminate all avoidable plastic waste.
This encompasses all types of plastic, including microplastics, and we are already
taking action.</p><p> </p><p>Last year we introduced one of the world’s strongest
bans on microbeads in rinse-off personal care products. Microbeads, like other microplastics,
do not biodegrade and therefore accumulate in the environment.</p><p> </p><p>To address
the evidence gaps surrounding other sources of microplastics, we are funding research
by the University of Plymouth into textiles and tyres which are estimated to be significant
sources of microplastics in the environment.</p><p> </p><p>As set out in the Resources
and Waste Strategy, Defra recognises the problems associated with plastic contamination
in soil. We are working with the Waste and Resources Action Programme to explore how
Government policy can address this issue, including by bringing industry and trade
associations together through the Food Waste Recycling Action Plan to minimise plastic
pollution in compost and digestate.</p><p> </p><p>The UK welcomes international collaboration
on preventing and reducing plastic waste. The actions listed in the EU’s plastics
strategy and its proposed Directive on reducing the impact of certain plastic products
on the environment are broadly consistent with Government policy in this area. The
UK supports this initiative and welcomes the EU in following our lead and recognising
the importance of addressing plastic pollution. We will match or where economically
practicable exceed the Directive’s ambition.</p>
|
|