Chetumal, Q.R. — In six months, single-use plastics will be prohibited on the islands of Quintana Roo. The new law was passed in congress this week, and will take effect for the entire state within 12 months.
Congress of Quintana Roo has agreed to begin the ban of single-use plastics in what are considered sensitive areas such as the islands of Holbox, Cozumel and Isla Mujeres before being enforced in the rest of the state.
The newly passed state law, Prevención, Gestión Integral y Economía Circular de los Residuos del Estado de Quintana Roo, intends to reduce, reuse and recycle waste as well as regenerate natural resources and the environment.
Once in effect, plastics such as utensils, straws, plates, glasses, cups, trays and cutlery, among others, as well as derivatives of extended polystyrene (unicel products), will be banned. The law also includes disposable plastic bags for the transfer of merchandise used in stores and supermarkets, self-service stores, convenience stores, pharmacies and restaurants.
However, the plastic packaging used for equipment and materials for the construction industry, as well as packaging for goods and products for medical purposes, are exempt.
Quintana Roo has officially joined other states around the country that have taken a step forward to legislate the ban on plastics.
