Single-Use Plastics Ban: Are You Ready?
The upcoming ban applies to England only. It includes:
- Polystyrene cups and food containers
- Single-use plastic cutlery
- Single-use balloon sticks
There will also be a restriction to the supply of single-use plastic trays and bowls to members of the public, although businesses can continue to supply these items if they are used as packaging in shelf-ready pre-packaged food items.
How to prepare for the single-use plastics ban
Businesses will need to use up existing stock and find alternative substitutes or reuse solutions by 1 October 2023.
This ban complements the existing restrictions on other single-use plastic items including plastic straws, cotton buds and drink stirrers and the carrier bag charge.
Why are single-use plastics being banned?
The events industry has been exploring sustainable and green alternatives for some time now. Single-use plastics have damaging environmental impacts as they are commonly littered and are difficult to recycle. These impacts need to be managed so that we can protect our environment.
Damaging environmental impacts
Plastic pollution takes hundreds of years to break down and inflicts serious damage on the environment. It is also a source of greenhouse gas emissions, from the production and manufacture of the plastic itself to the way it is disposed of.
Unnecessary littering
Every year England uses around 2.7 billion items of single-use cutlery — most of which are plastic — and 721 million single-use plates, but only 10% are recycled.
Enforcement
If the rules are not complied with, a range of enforcement options have been provided, including both civil and criminal sanctions. The bans will be enforced by Trading Standards.
FAQs and full details of restrictions and exemptions can be found on the UK Government website.
Our Latest Knowledge & Insights
A beginners guide to abstract management for conferences
Navigating the abstract submissions process can be complex. Ensuring quality and relevance requires submissions to undergo a rigorous review process and strict adherence to deadlines. The entire process can be complicated and time-consuming. This guide aims to provide beginners with a comprehensive understanding of the call for papers and abstract management process, its essential features and how effective abstract management improves event outcomes
Read More
Emily Branston | Inside my placement year: What it’s like working at Outsourced Events
Our Event Executive Emily shares what her day-to-day as an Event Executive really looks like. Emily joined us at Outsourced Events as a placement student, in July 2024, after two years studying Marketing and PR at Leeds Beckett University. In her own words, Emily shares what it’s been like to be an Event Executive at OE so far — from the fast-paced planning to the rewarding moments that make it all worthwhile.
Read More
How the right marketing agency can transform your events
From boosting event attendance to building long-term community engagement, the right partner crafts compelling content, runs targeted campaigns and elevates your brand's authority. This guide shows you how to find a marketing agency that aligns with your goals.
Read More
