Why Important to Wisconsin
Wisconsin companies with alternative products or other solutions may find a welcome market.
Latin American countries are joining the effort to ban single-use plastics.
In 2020, about 4 million tons of plastic pollution drifted into the ocean from the Latin America and Caribbean region, according to a 2022 report by the United Nations (UN) environmental agency. Currently, 27 of the 33 countries in the region have national or local laws that prohibit or reduce single-use plastics, the report says.
Mexico City was one of the largest cities in the world to enact a ban on most single-use plastics when it took effect Jan. 1, 2021—one year after a prohibition began on single-use plastic bags. Now, products no longer allowed also include plastic cups, cutlery, food containers, straws, and balloons.
According to a 2022 report by Duke University’s Nicholas Institute for Environmental Policy Solutions, the 22 million people who live in the Mexico City area represent 17% of the country’s total population but generate more than half of its waste. And while more than 90% of the waste is collected, most is improperly dumped into unregulated landfills.
In an effort to improve conditions, Mexico is taking steps to limit the use of plastics nationwide. As of 2022, there were four national regulations, 20 state laws, and 26 municipal rules governing plastic pollution.
One result has been additional investment in recycling infrastructure, particularly for polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles. So, while Mexico’s overall recycling rate is only 5%, recent studies show that more than 50% of PET bottles are collected and recycled.
In addition, on May 30, 2023, Mexico City joined the New Plastics Economy Global Commitment, a UN initiative that brings together businesses, governments, and other organizations to build a circular economy for plastics.
Wisconsin companies with expertise in recycling or in alternatives to single-use plastics might want to explore opportunities in Mexico.
