What steps is the Cabinet Secretary taking to reduce plastic use in restaurants and takeaways in Wales?
Through the Environmental Protection Single-use Plastic Products (Wales) Act 2023 we have already prohibited plastic single-use cutlery, straws, stirrers and cups and food containers made from polystyrene. Bans on polystyrene lids for cups and food containers will commence before April 2026. Sauce sachets are also included in the legislation for future consideration.
The introduction of this legislation was supported by communication campaigns and guidance which encouraged businesses and consumers to switch to reusable products. We continue to work with businesses in this sector and Local Authorities, as regulators for the legislation, to support the shift to non-plastic alternatives.