When referring to any of the results of our analysis and/or its concept and design, please cite us accordingly:
Global Plastics Policy Centre (2024) March A., Salam, S., Evans, T., Hilton, J., Fletcher, S. (editors). Global Plastics Policy Review. Revolution Plastics Institute, University of Portsmouth.
Barbados Control of Disposable Plastics Act (2019)
View the policy documentKey Findings
View the policy documentThis policy aims to prohibit the importation, the manufacture, retail of certain disposable plastics; to authorise the use of certain types of disposable plastics; and to provide for related matters. There was limited evidence for this policy at the time of the assessment.
However, the potential effectiveness of this Act could be limited by the following factors: a relatively large number of exemptions (including many types of plastic packaging) are included in this Act (Lancaster, 2022), the ban of single-use petroleum-based plastics under this Act was temporarily paused due to the COVID-19 pandemic (it has subsequently been reinforced) (King, 2021; Simpson, 2019), and a lack of standards for biodegradable or compostable alternatives to petroleum-based products (Rawlins-Bentham, 2021).
Some negative effects on the disabled community were also reported. A representative of the disabled community said that they could not use the biodegradable alternatives to petroleum-based straws. The legislation was subsequently adjusted to allow people with disabilities to continue to use petroleum-based straws so that they continue to enjoy the standard of living associated with the persons without disabilities (Major changes made to anti-plastics law, 2020).
(Reviewed in Mar 2023)
Our methods
Through an analytical framework, we've reviewed over 100 plastic policies. These reviews determine the effectiveness of policies in reducing plastic pollution and we offer recommendations in light of this evidence, to enhance future policy making. You can find out more about our methods on our methods page.
MethodsGuidance
In light of our findings, we've created targeted guidance for Policy Makers, Citizens and Businesses.
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