Reducing plastic use

On June 1 2022, a ban on some single-use plastic items came into effect. This is subject to the UK Internal Market Act 2020 and the Environmental Protection (Single-use Plastic Products) (Scotland) Regulations 2021.

The ban applies to the sale or supply of the following single-use items:

• plastic cutlery (forks, knives, spoons, chopsticks)
• plates
• straws
• beverage stirrers
• balloon sticks
• food containers made of expanded polystyrene
• cups and other beverage containers made of expanded polystyrene (including covers and lids)

This includes an exemption for single-use plastic straws. This allows independent living or those with medical purposes to get access to them. Plastic straws are available from pharmacies for people that need them. Certain businesses are able to make plastic straws on request in line with this exemption. For example, in the hospitality sector.

It is still possible to use single-use plastic for industrial or professional use. For example, balloon sticks. As long as they are not handed out to customers.

More single-use plastic information. Single-use plastics regulations Frequently Asked Questions.