environment
California’s landmark anti-plastics law sparks anger as 17 states move to sue
Ambitious plan to phase out single-use plastic opposed by chemicals industry – while green groups say law too timid
TL;DR
- California's law, effective May, mandates reduced single-use plastic and 100% recyclable/compostable packaging by 2032.
- Producers must cut single-use plastic, boost recycling, and pay $5 billion for plastic pollution harms.
- Only 5-6% of plastic is recycled, and low new plastic costs and reduced demand for recycled plastic hinder progress.
- Industry groups argue the law burdens manufacturers and 17 states have sued to block it.
- Environmental groups criticize the law for potentially allowing toxic waste and exempting certain plastics through loopholes.
- Extended producer responsibility laws are functioning globally, with lawsuits seen as a waste of time and money.