Retail New Zealand is urging the Government to take the lead in setting standards of plastic bags.
The Environment Commissioner believes biodegradable options are confusing, and Retail NZ spokesman Greg Harford says the Government needs to take the lead. He said the Government should provide "leadership" around what solutions are available.
Biodegradable plastic bag options are proving too complex for consumers, according to a new inquiry and Mr Harford says there are too many conflicting theories when it comes to plastics.
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"At the end of the day there are a whole host of scientific questions around biodegradable and compostable bags and a whole set of questions around how [bags] can be managed at end of life," he told Newshub.
The Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment has also said the Government should provide better advice about recycling plastics in New Zealand.
"There are all sorts of supposedly environmentally-friendly plastics coming onto the market, but it is extremely difficult for consumers to make sense of their respective claims," Commissioner Simon Upton said.
He's written to the Government urging it to provide clear guidelines and regulation about biodegradable and compostable plastics, saying "both businesses and consumers face a bewildering array of claims about plastic".
Newshub.
