China to decree plastic bags production standards

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Source: CCTV.com | 02-20-2008 09:17

The government is cracking down on a key environmental hazard by targeting the use of plastic bags. It has drafted regulations on production standards and is now soliciting public opinions on the subject.

There are currently 60,000 plastic-bag makers in China. Only one sixth of them are able to meet the new standards.

3 billion, that's the number of plastic bags the country consumes each day. Most of them are not bio-degradable. Those used bags pollute the soil and produce highly toxic substances after combustion.

Using fewer plastic bags and producing high quality and environmentally friendly bags will help reduce the adverse effects.

In the draft regulations, the minimum thickness of plastic shopping bags will 0.025 millimeters. And no coloring can be added to bags directly touching food. The name of the manufacturer and the strength of the bags will also be clearly marked.

The draft version includes one mandatory standard, and two recommended standards. But experts think they should all be mandatory.

Dong Jinshi, Vice Committee director of China Plastic Association, said, "During the enforcement process, plastic bag makers may not follow the recommended standards. I suggest to make the standards all mandatory, which will benefit the whole industry. "

There are currently 60,000 plastic-bag makers in China. Only one sixth of them are able to meet the new standards. For those able to cope, there may be bigger profits ahead.

Li Zhishan, manager of Beijing Chireng Ind'l & Trade LTD., said, "Once the new rules take effect, those who do not meet the standards will be weeded out. And we will have a larger market share."

Making environmentally friendly bags is another solution. Many manufacturers are hoping the government will provide preferential tax policies, if they channel funds into making bio-degradable bags.

Li Xiaolu, staff of Beijing Huabo Anshi Co., said, "Generally speaking, the cost of bio-degradable plastic bags is 10 to 20 percent higher than ordinary ones. That's one of the main factors hampering the wide-spread manufacture and use of such bags."

It's a big challenge for bag makers, but it's hoped the environmental benefits will be worth the efforts.

Editor:Zhang Ning