The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs
(DAERA) has launched a public consultation on the Plastic
Pollution Plan for Northern Ireland (PPP NI).
Across the world, an estimated 142.6 million tonnes of plastic
packaging is produced each year, with much of it ending up in
landfills, incinerators, or as litter across the countryside and
waterways.
More than 250 million plastic bottles are thrown out each year in
Northern Ireland which equates to 95 plastic bottles per person
per year. Combating our disposable culture by reducing our
reliance on plastic materials and reusing them where possible is
key to reducing harmful plastic pollution.
The Plastic Pollution Plan outlines the steps Northern Ireland
can take to progress towards a circular economy that is better
for the health of people and the environment.
The Plan details the Department's efforts to reduce plastic
pollution through current policies and seeks public feedback on
these measures as well as suggestions to further eliminate
plastic pollution.
Launching the public consultation, DAERA Minister said:
“Despite efforts made to date to tackle
plastic pollution, it remains a serious problem in Northern
Ireland. Everyone has a role to play in tackling plastic
pollution.
“We need to do more to end the overconsumption of natural
resources and unsustainable waste streams. The actions set out in
this plan can help create new economic opportunities and good
green jobs, as well as creating a cleaner environment for
all.
“That's why I am inviting all who wish
to contribute to building a cleaner and more resilient
environment to respond to the public consultation.”
The public consultation opened on 2 July 2025 and will run for 12
weeks, closing on 24 September 2025. Views are welcomed
from all who have an interest and wish to be part of reducing the
environmental impact of plastic pollution.
The consultation is available at: https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/consultations/public-consultation-plastic-pollution-plan-northern-ireland
