Belize Targets Illegal Single-Use Products

The Department of the Environment (DOE), under the Ministry of Sustainable Development and Climate Change, is intensifying efforts to tackle plastic pollution through the enforcement of Statutory Instrument No. 17 of the 2022 Environmental Protection (Pollution from Plastic) Regulations.

The regulations aim to phase out specific single-use plastic products and replace them with eco-friendly alternatives that comply with the Belize Standards for Biodegradable Products. Items under regulation include single-use plastics and Styrofoam products, such as food plates, clamshell containers, cups, lids, straws, cutlery, and plastic bags commonly known as “T-shirt bags.” The DOE has identified several unapproved and unauthorised brands currently on the market.

To ensure compliance and reduce plastic pollution, the DOE will conduct random inspections nationwide to verify that only registered and permitted products are sold. The public is reminded that it is illegal to import, manufacture, sell, or possess the regulated items. Violators of Statutory Instrument No. 17 of 2022 will face prosecution.