Earlier this year, Deputy Inna Gardiner lodged a proposition calling for a ban on the sale of a range of bags in shops.
However, she has now resubmitted it with a lengthy report outlining what other countries are doing and why Jersey should be adopting the same strategies.
In her proposition she calls for the supply and distribution of standard single-use bags, both plastic and paper, to be banned. However, she says that some bags, such as bags for life, integral product packaging, gift bags and bin liners should still be allowed.
However, the St Helier Deputy has also called for a minimum price to be introduced for bags for life. If approved, she has called for the Council of Ministers to bring forward draft legislation by February to give effect to the proposed changes.
The Deputy explained: ‘This proposition was prompted by my attendance at a Commonwealth Parliamentary Association workshop for Small Branches Sustainable Economic Development and concentrated on how we can tackle climate change, where I learned that Jersey is behind other small jurisdictions, such as the Northern Australian territory, the Seychelles and most of the Caribbean, where bag bans are already in place.
‘It also follows some of the recommendations set out in the 2019 report “Reducing use of plastic in Jersey”.’
She says the report follows engagement with parishes, retailers, a group behind a petition to ban plastic bags and others.
And she adds that the new, in-depth technical report accompanying the proposal follows work with the recycling manager at Growth, Housing and Environment. That report, she says, has been developed specifically for Jersey based upon international information and ideas.
‘As an Island community, we have a collective responsibility to look after our surrounding waters and marine life,’ she adds. ‘We must also grasp the opportunity to shift away from the habits of a “throwaway” culture, and instead make positive steps towards waste reduction and reuse that can continue to develop into the future.
‘Banning both single-use plastic carrier bags and paper carrier bags will encourage a “bring your own bag” culture, which is to be supported by delivering clear guidance to retailers and consumers alike through an education and engagement programme, to ensure that the bag ban is understood, sustainable, and measurable.’
