Alexei Volkov
Fiji has been at the forefront of the battle against plastics, championing a robust global treaty to reduce plastic production and minimize plastic pollution. In 2020, Fiji implemented a ban on single-use plastics, specifically targeting plastic bags with a thickness of less than 50 microns, made wholly or partially of polyethylene. This bold move was part of the nation's efforts to address the impact of plastic pollution on the natural environment, particularly marine life. The ban included exceptions for packaging products and garbage bags, and a levy on thicker plastic bags. Fiji has also joined the High Ambition Coalition, advocating for restrictions on chemicals in plastic formulations and a plastic tax. The country's actions have inspired other Pacific island nations to follow suit, with countries like Vanuatu and Samoa implementing similar measures to combat single-use plastic pollution.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic bags ban | Single-use plastic bags with thickness <50 microns were banned from being manufactured, distributed or sold from 1 January 2020 |
| Plastic bags levy | A levy of 50 cents was imposed on plastic bags with thickness >50 microns |
| Exemptions | Plastic bags used for packaging products and garbage bags were exempted from the ban |
| Non-biodegradable plastics | Not allowed to be imported into Fiji unless used for food, beverage preservation, pharmaceutical or medical use, or packaging for export |
| Polystyrene ban | Ban on polystyrene products came into effect on 1 January 2021 |
| Leadership | Fiji is a member of the High Ambition Coalition and is championing a global treaty to reduce plastic production and minimize plastic pollution |
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What You'll Learn
Fiji's ban on single-use plastics from 2020
Fiji has been at the forefront of the battle against plastics, particularly single-use plastics, for several years. The country's efforts to reduce plastic pollution are in recognition of the impact of plastic on the natural environment and marine life. In 2017, Fiji introduced a plastic bag levy to deter consumers from using plastic bags and encourage the use of reusable bags. This levy was increased from 20 cents to 50 cents in 2020 as part of the government's Climate Change Act.
Fiji implemented a ban on single-use plastics from 1 January 2020. Plastic bags with a thickness of less than 50 microns, made wholly or partially of polyethylene, were prohibited from manufacture, distribution, or sale in the country. Plastic bags thicker than 50 microns were subject to a charge of 50 cents. The ban included exceptions for packaging products and garbage bags. Additionally, non-biodegradable plastics were not allowed into the country unless they were for food and beverage preservation, pharmaceutical or medical use, or for product packaging for export.
Fiji's actions are part of a broader movement by Pacific island countries to address the global issue of marine plastic pollution. Countries such as Vanuatu and Samoa have also implemented bans on single-use plastic bags, straws, and polystyrene packaging. Fiji's leadership in this area extends beyond its borders, as it is a member of the High Ambition Coalition, advocating for a robust global treaty to reduce plastic production and minimize plastic pollution.
While Fiji's ban on single-use plastics is a significant step forward, the country continues to grapple with plastic pollution challenges. Water bottles, for example, were notably exempted from the ban due to limited access to clean drinking water outside major cities and the practical considerations of being a country that exports them. However, ecotoxicologists emphasize the need for corporations involved in plastic packaging, including bottled water, to be held accountable for their waste production and management.
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Fiji's plastic bag levy
Fiji introduced a plastic bag levy in 2017 to reduce plastic consumption and protect its natural environment. The levy is part of the country's commitment to combat marine debris, plastics, and microplastics, which often harm and kill marine animals. The Fijian government announced a 10-cent levy on plastic bags, applicable to all plastic bags with handles provided by businesses for carrying goods. The levy is paid by consumers but collected by businesses, which then remit the funds to the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service.
The levy is legislated through the Environment and Climate Adaptation Levy (ECAL) Act, which came into effect on August 1, 2017. All businesses are required to charge the levy on plastic bags and utilize a point-of-sale (POS) invoicing device to capture and reconcile the levy. The levy is not imposed on manufacturers, wholesalers, or retailers of plastic bags but on the businesses that provide plastic bags to customers for carrying goods.
To ensure compliance, businesses must display a clearly visible notice informing consumers of the ECAL charged on plastic bags. Failure to adhere to the ECAL Act or improper imposition of the levy by non-POS operators will result in fines and penalties. The Fiji Fuel Retailers Association also developed posters and counter signage to inform customers about the levy, emphasizing that it is supported by legislation.
The plastic bag levy in Fiji has shown positive results in reducing plastic bag usage. From August 1, 2017, to July 31, 2018, Fiji successfully levied a total of 43,581,688 plastic bags from 4,281 businesses with point-of-sale systems. This initiative is part of the country's broader efforts to address environmental concerns and adapt to the challenges posed by climate change.
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Fiji's ban on polystyrene from 2021
Fiji has been actively tackling plastic waste and pollution in the country and the Pacific Ocean. As part of this effort, the Fijian government announced a ban on polystyrene products, which came into effect on 1 January 2021. This ban is part of the government's Climate Change Act, which was first announced in 2019 by Fiji's Attorney General and Minister for Economy, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum.
The Act aims to address the impacts of plastic pollution on the Pacific Ocean and make Fiji's domestic response to climate change and the threat to its oceans a priority in national policies. Fiji had already implemented a plastic bag levy in August 2017, which was increased from 20 cents to 50 cents on 1 January 2020, to deter the use of plastic bags and encourage the use of reusable bags.
The ban on polystyrene products in 2021 further demonstrated the Fijian government's leadership and commitment to eradicating single-use plastics and addressing the growing global issue of marine plastic pollution. Fiji is one of many Pacific island countries that have taken a progressive stance against plastic pollution, including Samoa, which officially endorsed the Waste Management Regulation 2018, banning single-use plastic shopping bags, packing bags, and straws.
Despite these efforts, progress in combating the plastic crisis in Fiji has been hampered due to various challenges, including a lack of understanding about proper recycling practices and the need for alternatives to plastics. A 2021 report by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) revealed that plastic accounts for a significant 15,000 tonnes of Fiji's annual solid waste, and the problem is only growing. The report also highlighted the alarming impact of plastic pollution on marine life, with nearly 17% of marine species affected by entanglement or ingestion of microplastics.
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Fiji's exemption of water bottles from the single-use plastics ban
Fiji implemented a ban on single-use plastics in 2020 to tackle its pollution problem. Notably, water bottles were exempted from the ban. This exemption can be attributed to two primary reasons. Firstly, access to clean drinking water is limited outside of Fiji's major cities, making it essential to allow the use of plastic water bottles for practical reasons. Secondly, banning plastic bottles would negatively impact Fiji's economy, as the country is a significant exporter of bottled water. Fiji Water, the country's leading bottled water company, produces and exports a substantial amount of plastic bottles annually.
The exemption of water bottles from the single-use plastics ban in Fiji highlights the complex balance between environmental concerns and practical considerations. While Fiji is committed to reducing plastic pollution, particularly through the ban on single-use plastics, the exemption of water bottles demonstrates the challenges faced in implementing comprehensive plastic reduction measures.
Fiji's decision to exempt water bottles from the ban underscores the importance of ensuring access to clean drinking water for its citizens. Outside the main cities, access to clean water is limited, and plastic bottles are often the most practical and hygienic option for water storage and transportation. This exemption ensures that Fijians can continue to access safe drinking water, which is crucial for their health and well-being.
However, the exemption also highlights the economic considerations influencing Fiji's plastic ban policy. The country's significant bottled water industry, with Fiji Water being a prominent example, contributes substantially to the economy. Banning plastic bottles would directly impact this industry and, by extension, the country's exports and revenue. As a result, Fiji has had to weigh the environmental benefits of banning plastic bottles against the potential economic fallout.
While Fiji has committed to phasing out single-use plastics, the exemption of water bottles underscores the multifaceted nature of implementing such policies. It also highlights the need for a comprehensive approach that considers the unique circumstances and challenges faced by different countries. As Fiji continues its battle against plastic pollution, it is essential to explore sustainable alternatives, such as recycled plastics, to strike a balance between environmental protection and practical considerations.
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Fiji's role in the High Ambition Coalition
Fiji has played a significant role in the High Ambition Coalition (HAC) to End Plastic Pollution. As the 67th member of the Coalition, Fiji joined at a critical time, just before the final session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5) in Busan, Republic of Korea. The INC-5's aim was to develop an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution, including in the marine environment.
Fiji's membership in the HAC aligns with the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders' 2023 Communique and the Pacific Partnership for Prosperity, which encouraged Pacific nations to join the Coalition to strengthen the region's voice in global treaty negotiations. Fiji's Permanent Secretary for Environment, Dr., emphasised that plastic pollution poses a direct threat to the livelihoods, health, and ecosystems of Pacific Island nations. Fiji's membership in the HAC reaffirms its dedication to championing a treaty that takes a bold and comprehensive approach to addressing the plastic crisis.
The High Ambition Coalition to End Plastic Pollution is a group of ambitious countries committed to developing and implementing an international legally binding instrument to end plastic pollution by 2040. The Coalition aims to address plastic pollution through a comprehensive and circular approach that ensures urgent action and effective interventions along the full lifecycle of plastics. This includes recognising plastics as a material and a pollutant and considering sector-specific strategies for industries that use high volumes of plastics, such as fisheries and agriculture.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, Fiji banned single-use plastic bags on 1 January 2020.
Fiji recognised the impact of plastic bags on the natural environment, particularly marine life. The ban was part of the Fijian Government's Climate Change Act.
Plastic bags used for packaging products and garbage bags are exempt from the ban.
Fiji introduced a plastic bag levy in August 2017 to deter consumers from using plastic bags. The country also banned polystyrene products from 1 January 2021.
Fiji is a member of the High Ambition Coalition, which is championing a robust global treaty to reduce plastic production and minimise plastic pollution. Fiji is also taking action domestically to manage its pollution problem.
