By the end of 2020, the catering industry in Guangdong will ban the use of single-use non-degradable plastic straws and can not voluntarily offer plastic tableware. Also, non-degradable plastic bags will be prohibited to use in shopping malls, supermarkets, bookstores and catering packaging service in Guangzhou and Shenzhen.

(File photo / Xinhua)

The above requirements are referred in the "Opinions on Further Strengthening the Control of Plastic Pollution" issued by Guangdong Development and Reform Commission on August 21st. The new policy will take effect from September 1st, 2020, and it will last for 5 years.

Many aspects of life will be affected by the this new rule as follows.

▶ Disposable plastic tableware

By the end of 2020:

Government departments, public institutions, state-owned enterprises in Guangdong will take the lead in stopping the use of non-degradable plastic tableware; non-degradable disposable plastic tableware is prohibited for catering services in built-up areas and scenic spots in cities above the prefecture level.

By the end of 2022:

The use of non-degradable disposable plastic tableware is prohibited for catering services in built-up areas of county towns and scenic spots.

By the end of 2025:

The use of non-degradable disposable plastic tableware in the food & beverage delivery sector of cities above prefecture level will drop by over 30%; catering industry is encouraged to stop using plastic tableware in delivery service.

▶ Disposable plastic bags

(Photo / Guangzhou Daily)

By the end of 2020:

Government departments, public institutions, state-owned enterprises in Guangdong will take the lead in stopping the use of non-degradable plastic bags; the use of non-degradable plastic bags will be regulated and restricted in markets.

By the end of 2022:

The scope of implementation will be extended to all built-up areas of counties and cities above the prefecture level.

By the end of 2025:

The use of non-degradable plastic will be banned in markets of the above areas; the use of non-degradable plastic bags will be encouraged to prohibit in places such as villages, towns, and rural markets.

▶ Disposable plastic products for hotels

By the end of 2022：

Star-rated hotels in Guangdong should not voluntarily provide disposable plastic products, relevant services can be offered by setting up self-service purchasing machine.

By the end of 2025:

The scope of implementation will be extended to all hotels and homestays.

Author: Will

Editor: Jerry