Responding to micro-plastics | Japan plans to amend the basic policy of coastal drifting

On November 8th, according to the Kyodo News Agency, on the 7th local time, the Japanese Ministry of the Environment announced a revised plan for the basic policy of coastal drifting to refuse, called cutting plastic waste that causes serious marine pollution, requiring companies to reduce their use in facial cleanser. Plastic beads are used in toothpaste, etc. The modification plan will be summarized during the year.

In the program, food and beverage stores and retail stores are also required to actively stop using plastic bags, straws and other disposable plastic products; and urge fishery personnel to completely prevent plastic fishing gear from flowing into the sea.

It is reported that the plastic bags that flow into the sea will be broken under the action of ultraviolet rays and waves, and become micro-plastic drifting of the size of 5 mm or less. Due to the actual pollution situation and the impact on the ecosystem, there are still many unclear parts, the Japanese government will Committed to investigation and research. The recycling and disposal of floating garbage and submarine waste will be promoted by the Central Government of Japan and local governments.

The Ministry of the Environment presented the revised plan to the expert meeting. Some participants pointed out: 'The possibility of recycling micro-plastics in the sea is negligible. It is important to reduce emissions.'

The basic policy for coastal drifting refuses measures, Japan’s central and local governments should share their responsibilities, cooperate with the private sector to reduce emissions, and promote recycling.

In addition, specific measures and numerical targets for plastic bag charges have also been discussed as a 'plastic resource recycling strategy', which will summarize the general framework during the year.