Biden administration has unveiled a sweeping plan to eliminate single-use plastics from all federal operations by 2035. This initiative, detailed in an 83-page document released on Friday, represents the most comprehensive federal strategy to date targeting plastic pollution from production through to disposal.
The administration’s plan, which focuses on phasing out single-use plastics used in food service, events, and packaging, sets interim goals for 2027, when these plastics will be eliminated from federal procurement processes. By 2035, the policy will extend to cover all federal operations, making it a historic step in the fight against environmental degradation caused by plastic waste.
In a statement accompanying the release of the document, the White House emphasized its commitment to tackling plastic pollution on a global scale. “We are dedicated to taking ambitious actions throughout the lifecycle of plastic to end plastic pollution,” the statement read. “Our approach is not just about reducing plastic use within federal operations but also about setting a precedent for global action.”
Plastic pollution has emerged as a critical environmental issue, with at least 460 million metric tons produced annually — a figure equivalent to the weight of more than 300,000 blue whales, according to the United Nations Environment Program. As plastics degrade, they fragment into microplastics, tiny particles smaller than five millimeters that have infiltrated every corner of the planet, including human bodies.
The new policy aims to significantly reduce the supply of single-use plastics, a key contributor to this pervasive pollution. The strategy involves a multi-faceted approach that addresses plastic pollution across various stages: production, processing, use, and disposal. This comprehensive effort seeks to mitigate the environmental impact of plastics and promote sustainable alternatives.
The administration’s plan aligns with broader global efforts to combat plastic pollution, reflecting growing international concern over the environmental and health impacts of plastic waste. The strategy also underscores the Biden administration’s commitment to environmental sustainability and its role in spearheading significant policy changes at home and abroad.
As the world grapples with the consequences of plastic pollution, the White House’s initiative represents a critical step toward reducing the environmental footprint of single-use plastics and fostering a more sustainable future. The administration’s action is expected to influence other sectors and countries, setting a new benchmark for environmental stewardship and plastic waste management.
