France makes progress in the fight against single-use plastic

It’s great to see the French Government enforcing positive change. As part of a multi-year plan to phase out plastic packaging, from January 2022 producers will need to find an alternative packaging material for the majority of fruit and vegetables sold.

This follows on from the current ban on plastic cutlery, straws and cups and styrofoam takeaway boxes that came into force in 2021. 

Some delicate produce such as strawberries and tomatoes will be allowed to be packaged in plastic for slightly longer, but producers will be obliged to completely phase this out by 2026.

As part of the plan, the government is also encouraging water fountains in public spaces to discourage single use plastic bottles.