By Natalia Rueda 
As the world grapples with the consequences of rampant plastic pollution, Colombia is taking an important step to reduce its contribution to this global crisis. On July 7, a government ban on some single-use plastic products will go into effect, marking an important milestone in the country’s fight against plastic waste.
Annually, millions of tons of single-use plastics end up in oceans, rivers and landfills. These materials can take centuries to decompose, releasing microplastics and harmful chemicals into the environment. Microplastics are tiny particles that can be ingested by marine wildlife, affecting the food chain and, eventually, human health.
The ban, established in Law 2232 of 2022, is part of Colombia’s broader goal to gradually reduce the production and consumption of plastic products. The country, like many others, has experienced a significant increase in plastic consumption in recent years, leading to an increase in plastic waste and its devastating impact on the environment.
In addition, the government has made it clear that those who do not comply with the rules will face severe consequences. Fines of up to 50,000 minimum monthly wages will be imposed on individuals or companies that continue to use these banned plastic products.
Single-use plastics to be banned as of July 7
- Point-of-payment bags used for market packaging.
- Bags used to package newspapers, bills, magazines and invoices.
- Bags used in laundries to deliver clean garments.
- Straws
- Plastic swab holders.
- Plastic holders for pumps.
- Rolls of empty bags in commercial surfaces for packing, loading or transporting packages and
- goods o Carrying bulk food, except for raw animal products.
Single-use plastics that are not yet banned
- Garbage bags.
- Pet waste bags.
- Plastic packaging
- Disposable products
- Food containers.
- Icopor.
This is an important step forward in the fight against plastic pollution in Colombia. It is expected that this measure will significantly reduce the amount of single-use plastic produced and discarded in the country. A joint effort is needed from all sectors to achieve a change in the way we consume and dispose of plastic and encourage recycling and the circular economy.