A gradual restriction on the use of plastics starts in New Caledonia today.
A torn plastic bag drifts over a tropical coral reef causing a hazard to marine life such as turtles. Photo: 123RF
From now on, single-use plastic bags are banned.
In a month, the ban will be extended to plastic plates and straws, and starting next May, plastic food packaging will be prohibited.
Per capita New Caledonians have reportedly used more than 200 plastic bags each year.
When the law was adopted by congress last year, some parties abstained from voting, suggesting the change was too sudden.