An environmental collective has welcomed legislation to stamp out single-use plastics — but questioned why no specific products had been added to the schedule of those facing bans or restrictions.

In a statement issued to The Royal Gazette, Beyond Plastics Bermuda, which includes representation from Keep Bermuda Beautiful and the Bermuda Environmental Sustainability Taskforce, congratulated Jaché Adams, the Minister of Public Works and Environment, for bringing the Bill to the House of Assembly on Friday, saying it believed he was “committed to doing what is right for the people of Bermuda”.

Mr Adams told MPs that although previous consultation had explored the issue, there would be dialogue before individual products were identified and added to the schedule of banned items. He said it would be done in a phased approach.

In an on-screen interview posted on the Government of Bermuda’s Facebook page, Mr Adams stated that consultation would commence if the Bill was passed, and, once completed, implementation would start “shortly thereafter”.

However, the group, which has worked alongside the Government, businesses and the community to support Bermuda’s transition away from plastic products, said: “We are disappointed that no specific products have yet been included in the schedule, despite extensive consultation and the passage of time.

“While we understand the complexities involved, Bermuda must now act quickly and align with global efforts to eliminate the most harmful and avoidable single-use plastics.

“The primary focus of this legislation should be on the biggest contributors to pollution and human exposure, namely single-use plastics associated with takeaway food and everyday consumer use.

“These items represent a significant and avoidable source of environmental harm and human health risk. Even once restrictions are introduced, exposure to plastics will remain widespread and we encourage individuals to reduce use wherever feasible.

“Beyond Plastic Bermuda looks forward to participating in the consultation process and urges the public to engage.”

Read more here: https://www.royalgazette.com/environment/news/article/20260331/plastics-ban-welcomed-but-campaigners-urge-quick-action/