The British Independent Retailers Association (Bira) has urged all the local businesses to prepare for the upcoming ban on circulation and use of single-use plastics.
The ban, which is slated to come into effect from 1 October, will outlaw the supply, sale and use of a range of single-use plastic items, including biodegradable, compostable and recycled.
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Some of these items are plastic plates, bowls, trays, containers, cutlery and balloon sticks.
Bira said that it intends to warn the businesses and shopkeepers in advance about the upcoming ban to ensure that they are not unaware or unprepared for the new regulations.
The Association currently works with more than 6,000 independent businesses of all sizes spread across the UK.
Bira CEO Andrew Goodacre said: “The ban on single-use plastics is coming into force as from the 1 October, and breaches of these new regulations will result in fines for the business owners.
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By GlobalData“It is therefore crucial to really understand the new regulations and start planning to use up old stock and bring in new legal products to replace the single-use plastic items. All new regulations invariably mean more cost to the business, but planning ahead can mitigate the impact of this.”
Bira said that the government has outlined stringent regulations for online and over-the-counter sales and supply of single use plastics items, both from existing and new stock available with the local businesses.
It will be mandatory for all the businesses to comply with these regulations, as any sort of breaches, according to Bira, may lead to fines for business owners and inspections by the local authorities.
Goodacre added: “The regulations are a measure to improve recycling and ultimately the negative impact on the environment.
“Retailers will need to start now (if not done so already) to source replacement stock – I have seen increasing use of paper bags and reusable nets in food shops. For delis, the same rules apply, but the food served at the counter can still be served in single-use containers – however, now might be the right time to change everything and establish stronger environmental credentials.”
