WWF poll says 85% of public support single-use plastic ban 

The survey, spanning 32 countries and encompassing over 24,000 respondents, disclosed that 85% of respondents advocate for a ban on single-use plastics, while 90% support prohibiting hazardous chemicals commonly found in plastic production. 

The WWF has highlighted that the survey shows a global ban on single-use plastics is considered “essential” among the public. The organisation stated that more than 430 million tonnes of virgin plastic are produced annually, with 60% being single-use items. 

Measures 

Presently, according to the charity, only 9% of this plastic is recycled worldwide which it believes highlights the urgency for such measures in the treaty. 

In addition to advocating for bans on single-use plastics and hazardous chemicals, the survey underscores widespread favourability towards prohibiting plastic items that pose challenges for recycling, garnering support from 87% of respondents.  

Furthermore, the data shows a broader recognition among participants that bans alone cannot adequately resolve the plastic pollution crisis. Respondents overwhelmingly support a shift in the plastics industry, advocating for measures such as compelling manufacturers to invest in reusable and refillable systems. 

Severity  

Erin Simon, vice president and head of plastic waste and business at WWF-US, said: “The severity of the plastic pollution crisis and the need for immediate global action is universally understood by individuals from every corner of the world, 

“As negotiators get to work on the next round of treaty talks, equipped with these survey results, the only path forward is one where countries agree to finally put an end to the visible and invisible impacts of plastic pollution. Now is the time for a legally binding treaty that delivers both what the people want, and what the planet desperately needs.” 

‘Concern’ 

Eirik Lindebjerg, global plastics lead at WWF International, said: “Few ordinary citizens are involved in the negotiations for a global plastic pollution treaty despite living on the frontlines of the crisis.

“Yet the survey shows citizens have a high level of awareness, concern and engagement on what is needed to end plastic pollution and are rejecting the toxic and unjust plastics ecosystem that’s been imposed on them through lax laws and profit-oriented businesses.

“Right now, we are at a crossroads. The upcoming negotiations in Ottawa will determine whether we get the treaty that was promised by the end of 2024, or not. We know from other environmental treaties that nothing less than binding global rules and obligations across the plastics value chain will halt the problem. Settling for anything less is indefensible.

“An overwhelming majority of countries have already called for the binding global rules needed – our leaders must now turn these calls into action.” 

To find out more about plastics, please visit the National Letsrecycle.com Conference on 6 June at QEII Centre in London. To book tickets to attend or for more information please click here.