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Disposable tableware made from bioplastic PLA to be banned from Aug. 1
2023-07-21
On February 4th of this year, the Environmental Protection Administration (EPA) announced a plan to reduce environmental burdens by amending the "Restrictions and Implementation of the Use of Disposable Tableware" regulations. The proposed amendment prohibits the use of "Polylactic acid (PLA)" as the material for disposable tableware for 8 specific categories of establishments. The new regulation is expected to take effect on August 1st of this year.
What is Polylactic acid (PLA)?
PLA is a commonly used biodegradable plastic in Taiwan, made from plant starch such as corn and potatoes through fermentation. In recent years, many businesses have chosen PLA as an alternative material for disposable tableware after restrictions were implemented on single-use plastics.
At first glance, biodegradable plastics like PLA may seem environmentally friendly and capable of decomposing in natural environments. However, this is not entirely true. These products are biodegradable but still have a significant environmental impact if not processed under specific temperature and humidity conditions.
Halting "single-use" and replacing materials cannot solve the problem
As early as 2018, the European Parliament passed a resolution stating that biodegradable plastics cannot solve the issue of plastic pollution. According to a research report by Greenpeace, in 2019, 59% of globally produced biodegradable plastics were used for making plastic bags, food containers, beverage cups, and cosmetic packaging. During the manufacturing process, plasticizers or other chemicals are often added to meet usage requirements. Moreover, the complexity of the material makes it difficult to recycle, raising concerns about the environment and health.
8 major locations will prohibit the use of PLA.
The EPA pointed out that there are currently no suitable recycling methods or composting facilities for PLA plastics in Taiwan. Biodegradable plastics not only fail to decompose in the ocean but also bear a close resemblance to PET bottles, leading to confusion and difficulty in distinguishing them in existing recycling systems, thereby causing environmental problems.
PLA materials are commonly used in food packaging nets, egg cartons, microwave containers in convenience stores, disposable tableware in fast-food restaurants, and plastic wrapping for batteries. Therefore, the EPA's proposed amendment to the "Restrictions and Implementation of the Use of Disposable Tableware" regulations will start by prohibiting the use of PLA materials. The new regulation will be fully enforced on August 1st this year for the aforementioned 8 categories, including prohibiting the provision of cups, bowls, plates, dishes, food containers, and plastic trays used in disposable tableware that are made from biodegradable plastics. Offenders may face a fine ranging from NT$1,200 to NT$6,000 under the "Waste Disposal Act."
Referance: https://esg.gvm.com.tw/article/22574