Rethinking Plastics: A Global Call to Action on International Plastic Bag Free Day

International Plastic Bag Free Day, commemorated annually on the 3rd of July, is an important day that prompts us to question our reliance on plastics and explore ways to reduce their harmful effects on our planet. This day serves as a global call to action, encouraging individuals, businesses, and governments to rethink their use of plastic bags and embrace sustainable alternatives that safeguard our environment and future generations.

Shockingly, less than 10% of plastic is recycled, underscoring the urgent need to reduce the pervasive use of plastic bags which has contributed to severe environmental degradation, from polluted oceans to harmful microplastics in our food chain. Since 1950, humanity has produced over 9.2 billion tonnes of plastic, with production soaring from 2.3 million tonnes in 1950 to 448 million tonnes in 2015, and projected to double by 2050. To put this into perspective, this amount of plastic, if laid end to end, could span the distance from the Earth to the Sun, which is approximately 149.6 million kilometres.

Effective reduction of plastic pollution requires a concerted effort from all sectors of society. Governments are already taking steps to promote sustainable practices and hold industries accountable for their environmental impact. However, there is a need for continued and robust policies and incentives to further advance these efforts and ensure long-term sustainability. The private sector is equally crucial, driving innovation and developing eco-friendly alternatives to single-use plastics. Concurrently, individual actions are pivotal as responsible consumption habits and supporting businesses committed to sustainability can collectively drive positive change.

Globally, nations are taking significant strides to combat plastic pollution. The European Union, for instance, has enacted stringent regulations aimed at phasing out single-use plastics, setting a strong precedent for promoting sustainable alternatives. Similarly, countries like Canada, Australia, and various African nations have implemented bans and levies on plastic bags, encouraging the shift towards reusable solutions and fostering a culture of environmental responsibility.

In Indonesia, significant efforts are underway to combat plastic consumption and embrace sustainable practices, driven by both governmental policies and collaborative efforts with the private sector. The country, home to 270 million people, faced a substantial challenge in 2022 when it generated 12.6 million tonnes of plastic waste, with a dismal recycling rate of just 9%.

Central to Indonesia’s strategy is its ambitious goal of reducing plastic waste by 70% by 2025 under the Marine Debris Action Plan. This comprehensive initiative aims to mitigate plastic pollution in marine environments through enhanced waste management systems, widespread recycling programmes, and stringent policies targeting single-use plastics.

A notable milestone in Indonesia’s journey towards environmental stewardship was the implementation of a ban in Bali in July 2019. This regulation outlawed single-use plastic bags, straws, and styrofoam, marking a significant step forward in enhancing environmental cleanliness across the archipelago. Looking ahead, Indonesia is determined to enforce a nationwide ban on single-use plastics by 2029. This forthcoming legislation is complemented by a directive for manufacturers to reduce plastic packaging by 30 percent, reinforcing Indonesia’s commitment to tackling plastic pollution at its root.

In tandem with Indonesia’s governmental initiatives, the private sector, exemplified by APP Group, is playing a pivotal role in advancing sustainable practices and reducing plastic waste. Key products like Foopak Anchor Bio and Enza PFAS-free White Kraft are showcased at global events such as EXPO PACK México and ProPak Asia 2024, leading the transition away from traditional plastics in the food service industry.

Foopak Anchor Bio, with its hard-sized paper packaging board and thermoforming properties, is ideal for ready-meal and frozen food trays, balancing convenience with sustainability. On the other hand, Enza PFAS-free White Kraft offers lightweight, grease-resistant paper suitable for various food packaging applications, ensuring compliance with FDA standards and underscoring their commitment to safety and sustainability.

Through a strategic partnership with Garuda Indonesia, APP introduces eco-friendly in-flight solutions using Enza and Foopak products. This collaboration not only enhances passenger experiences but also supports Indonesia’s ambitious target to reduce plastic waste by 70% by 2025. By pioneering eco-friendly packaging solutions for cutlery, food, and beverage items on flights across Sumatra and other key destinations, Garuda Indonesia and APP are setting a benchmark for sustainable practices within the aviation industry.

The private sector’s provision of sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives empowers individuals to make greener choices in their daily lives. By offering products that reduce reliance on plastics, companies like APP contribute to a broader culture of environmental responsibility. This empowers consumers to actively choose products that align with their values of sustainability, fostering a collective effort towards reducing plastic pollution globally.

International Plastic Bag Free Day should inspire continuous reflection and action throughout the year. Each choice to reduce plastic usage, whether in the home, at work, or in everyday activities, contributes to the preservation of our planet’s health. By embracing sustainable alternatives and supporting initiatives that promote environmental stewardship, we can collectively work towards a future where plastic pollution is significantly reduced. Let us strive to make every day Plastic Bag Free Day by making mindful choices that benefit both our communities and the environment we share.