The presentation of a draft National Ordinance regulating single-use plastics by St. Maarten Development Fund (SMDF) to government (see Monday newspaper) marked a significant moment in efforts to protect the local environment. To say it has been long in coming would be an understatement, but – as the saying goes – better late than never.
A phased approach was understandably chosen to restrict the production, import and sale of single-use plastics as well as polystyrene foam products. This allows both consumers and the business sector time to adapt.
The incremental rollout will start with plastic shopping bags, straws and stirrers plus styrofoam food containers. This is to be followed by plastic cutlery, plates, bowls and cups, it was announced early last month.
Six-month intervals between the bans at various levels of the supply chain seems a reasonable enough transition period. Requiring a formal review of the law’s effectiveness, in this case after five years, is probably a good idea too.
Like always, once Parliament approves the bill and it is proclaimed, implementation and enforcement become key, so steps continue in this direction. As such, proof of the proverbial pudding will again be very much in the eating.
