Plastics
Single use plastics represent an unsustainable use of oil, which is a finite resource. A lot of single use plastic it is unnecessary, as alternatives are available. Reducing our use of these items can contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Marine plastics also cause direct impacts on marine species, such as tangling and choking, but also tiny plastic particles and associated toxins are infiltrating all levels of the marine food chain, creating a problem which may impact on generations well into the future.
The Isle of Man government is committed to reducing the amount of single use plastic used within government and on the island. The Single Use Plastics Reduction Plan for the Isle of Man Government provided a lead and the Single Use Plastic Reduction Plan for the Isle of Man Community extends this across the community.
The plastic waste that is collected is either recycled or burnt to turn the energy it contains into electricity. However some plastics do find their way into the environment and it is important to tackle this issue and make littering socially unacceptable.
The Community Plan includes a legislative ban on certain single use plastic items, education and awareness work and several schemes to promote plastic reduction.
The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture also works in partnership with Manx Wildlife Trust and Beach Buddies on initiatives to inform and educate on plastics issues and reduce plastics in the Manx environment. A roadshow display on marine litter is available – contact the DEFA Ecosystem Policy Unit to book it for a period.
If you have any queries regarding either of the plastics plans, please email:
How you can make a difference:
- Use reusable items
- Avoid flushing down plastics
- Say no to single use plastics
- Join Beach Buddies or 3 Pieces of Plastic
