GETTING RID OF PLASTICS

Now that the severe Storm Claudia has passed leaving much flooding, property and tree damage, and even deaths and injuries, Portugal must calmly look forward to another national problem in the months ahead.

 

The government will introduce a plastic bottle return (PBR) scheme on April 10th next year. The system will apply to single-use plastic bottles and aluminium or steel cans containing up to three litres.

 

It means that people will pay a deposit every time they buy such a beverage container and then receive their deposit back on returning it.

Supermarkets and food retail shops throughout mainland Portugal, as well as on the autonomous islands of Madeira and the Azores, will be involved.

 

The PDR scheme has been long delayed in being properly implemented in Portugal. However, at long last it will now follow the example set in 50 other countries, some of which, such as Germany, already have over 90% returns. The scheme is expected to grow rapidly next year in Portugal and include all types of plastic packaging.

 

For now, Portugal is cutting plastic use by banning such single-use items as plastic cutlery, plates, and polyester cups. It has also imposed a tax on non-reusable packaging. Businesses are being prompted through increasing legislation to make all types of plastics re-usable, recyclable or compostable.  Local communities and various organisations are busy implementing clean-ups and educational awareness programmes.