St. Maarten Development Fund (SMDF) is seeking an external statistical consultant (see Monday edition) to collect and analyse data regarding the current import, usage and “sentiments” of single-use plastics (SUPs) and polystyrene foam products, as well as the potential impacts of a restriction on their use for local retailers and pertinent sectors.
The good news is that preparations for a long-awaited prohibition of these wasteful and environmentally damaging items are obviously still taking place. Decision-making based on facts and figures obviously makes sense too.
However, it has been several years since Parliament approved introducing a ban. Since then, various others in the region have done so successfully.
The latest target date of January 1 is probably no longer feasible, as Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication (TEATT) Arthur “Leo” Lambriex recently acknowledged. Although he had earlier suggested perhaps an import stop would be more effective, the necessary legislation for such appears to be lacking.
The reality remains that various large supermarkets no longer give out plastic grocery bags and most shoppers simply got used to bringing their own. It’s a bit different for other types of stores and restaurants, but biodegradable paper sacks or carton boxes can offer sustainable solutions, even if it costs a bit more.
So, studies are always welcome, but in this case should not take an eternity to confirm what seems a foregone conclusion: SUPs and Styrofoam containers are a huge detriment to the island’s nature that is also an important part of its tourism economy.
Reducing this threat will never be completely without sacrifice, but is ultimately worth the price.
