Gleaner Editors’ Forum | Full support for plastic ban, says Samuda
Published:Wednesday | December 26, 2018 | 12:00 AMErica Virtue/Senior Gleaner Writer
Despite concerns of a financial fallout from the ban on certain single-use plastic and styrofoam products, which takes effect next week, Government Senator Matthew Samuda said there is support from both political parties, as well as the business community.
Speaking during a Gleaner Editors' Forum last week, Samuda, who has championed the ban since he became a legislator, said that while there were some concerns and even an initial pushback against the decision, many have seen the wisdom of the initiative.
"I am a firm believer in free market, and I believe the market will realign itself. I am getting social-media messages about alternatives for straws, for example. Persons are saying they are bringing in containers of paper bags. Persons are out there seeking markets for alternatives," Samuda told the forum.
He also stated that business operators are being meticulous with their investments as they do not want equipment purchased for the change to become obsolete in a short time.
"I have seen young and old business persons who have mobilised rather quickly to offer biodegradable options. My last count now was that 19 businesses were offering alternatives in the marketplace," stated Samuda.
UNLIKELY TO AFFECT COST OF MEALS
Daryl Vaz, minister without portfolio in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation, signalled in his Budget presentation earlier this year that it was no longer a matter of if, but when and how the ban would be implemented.
He also said that the cost of alternatives to lunch boxes, for example, was unlikely to affect the cost of meals.
Meanwhile, Peter Knight, chief executive officer of the National Environment and Planning Agency, welcomed the full support of the ban, which will be implemented on January 1.
He said comments on the policy have been 95 per cent positive, while the other five per cent were not necessarily negative but have raised concerns about alternatives.
"Since the policy has been announced, there have been no objections. Even the producers that started off on a negative have gone quiet. So, I want to recognise the all-round support from the Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters' Association, chambers of commerce, Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica, [and] Opposition. It has been excellent," Knight stated.