The complexities of France's plastic ban on fruits and vegetables. Despite efforts, critics question exemptions, posing challenges for a plastic-free future. #EnvironmentalConcerns
Despite concerns from environmental groups, France has implemented a decree banning plastic packaging on fruits and vegetables weighing less than 1.5kg since January 1, 2024. The move aims to reduce single-use plastics, but critics, including Manon Richert of Zero Waste France, argue that the extensive list of exemptions compromises the goal of achieving zero single-use plastics by 2040.
Laurent Grandin, President of Interfel, the interbranch organization, supports the exemptions, asserting they address the challenges posed by the fragility of certain products for which viable alternatives may not yet exist. Grandin also commended the sector's ongoing efforts in minimizing plastic usage. "We are in favor of getting rid of plastic," he affirmed on France Info. "Half of our products are packed in alternative packaging, and we already sell two-thirds of our products in bulk."
Grandin acknowledged the complexity of the situation, noting that the decree is reportedly considered "illegal" in the EU, where a unified stance among member countries is currently under discussion.
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