NDP: Let’s Ban Single-Use Plastics by 2022

MONTREAL - On Tuesday, the NDP presented their plan to put the health of people and the environment first by calling for a ban on single-use plastics by 2022, as part of a broader Waste Reduction Strategy. When it comes to combatting plastic pollution, Justin Trudeau’s inaction won’t get the job done.

“Plastic pollution is a direct and growing threat to ecosystems, food chains and human health, and is even being absorbed into our bodies. Urgent action is required to limit the tremendous damage done by plastic pollution, but Justin Trudeau Liberals’ talk about global efforts hasn’t translated into action or results,” said NDP Environment Critic Alexandre Boulerice. “Montreal is already proposing a ban to restrict the use of plastic straws, plastic bags, and plastic coffee cup lids. It is clear that Justin Trudeau should lead these efforts throughout the country.”

Canada is falling behind on reducing waste and phasing out single-use plastics. Plastic pollution has huge costs for our economy, our environment and our communities. New Democrats led the way with the ban of microbeads. And the NDP recently passed a motion demanding the government take action to reduce plastic pollution in our rivers, lakes, and oceans.

“The average plastic straw or shopping bag will only be used for a few minutes or hours, but it will long outlive us as garbage in our environment. But when push comes to shove, Justin Trudeau Liberals are standing with plastics producers, instead of protecting Canadians,” added NDP candidate in Outremont Julia Sánchez. “We believe strong leadership and determined action is needed now to effectively combat plastic pollution. The NDP will continue to push Justin Trudeau’s Liberals to act now.”