South Africa implements new regulations for plastic products

South Africa is set to boost plastic recycling in the fight against pollution, said Bernice Swarts, the Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment. She was speaking at the International Solid Waste Association's (ISWA) World Congress, which runs from 15 to 18 September in Cape Town under the theme "Waste to Wealth: Solutions for a Sustainable Future." This is the first time the event is being held in Africa. This is reported by Xinhua News Agency, a partner of TV BRICS.

Swarts noted that various activities are planned as part of the fight against plastic and marine litter pollution. "South Africa is increasing recycling capacity for the management of plastic waste and eliminating plastic pollution," she said.

The country is also implementing new regulations on plastic products that are prioritised. As part of improving the circularity of products, there is a requirement for recycled content in plastic products. In 2023, the South African government introduced a limit of at least 50 per cent recycled content in the production of plastic carrier bags, with the aim of making them entirely from recycled materials by 2027.

The Deputy Minister also referred to President Cyril Ramaphosa's signing of the Climate Change Act, which was passed on 23 July.

The Act seeks to harmonise policies relating to climate change action to ensure the country's transition to a low-carbon economy.

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