At a crucial moment for environmental protection, Colombia implemented the new Plastics Law, marking a turning point in the fight against single-use plastic pollution. MarViva, together with organizations such as Greenpeace Colombia, Plástico Precioso Uramba, WWF, and Planeta ConSentido, joined forces to make an urgent call to national and international authorities, Colombian society, and the industrial sector to support and move forward with this legislation, which came into force on July 7, 2024.

Colombia’s new Plastics Law bans several categories of single-use plastic products. Single-use point-of-payment bags used for packaging, carrying, or transporting packages and goods will be eliminated, except for reusable or industrial use. Likewise, bags used to package newspapers, magazines, advertising, and invoices will be eliminated. Rolls of empty bags used to pack vegetables, fruits, and tubers in stores and supermarkets will also be banned. In addition, mixers and straws for beverages will disappear from the market, as will plastic holders for inflation pumps and cotton balls.

By banning certain single-use plastic products, Colombia is taking a decisive step towards protecting its ecosystems and preserving its biodiversity. The measures adopted will not only help reduce pollution and the costs associated with waste management but will also encourage innovation in the industry and promote more eco-friendly alternatives. Collaboration between government, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector will be essential to ensure the success of this legislation and to foster a culture of environmental responsibility that will benefit future generations so that we can continue to say #ChaoPlásticoDesechable.