Single-use plastics ban – in force

From 1 October 2023, businesses in England must no longer supply, sell or offer certain single-use plastic items in England.

The single-use plastic ban follows on from the existing plastic ban on microbeads in 2018 and single use plastic straws in 2020. In Scotland, there is already a single use plastic ban that came into force in June 2022.

From 1 October, any business in England that relies on single use plastic products in any form must comply with the ban. The ban includes:

• Online and over-the-counter sales and supply.
• Items from new and existing stock.
• All types of single-use plastic, including biodegradable, compostable and recycled.
• Items wholly or partly made from plastic, including coating or lining.

“Single use” means the item is meant to be used only once for its original purpose.

If a business continues to supply banned single-use plastics after 1 October, it could be fined. Local authorities will carry out inspections to ensure the rules are being followed.

There are some exemptions to the ban, depending on the item.

This is valid as of 2nd October 2023.