Canadians show strong support for single-use plastics ban

A recent poll commissioned by Oceana Canada and conducted by Abacus Data indicates that 82% of Canadians support the 18-month-old ban on single-use plastics.

This ban includes items such as checkout bags, six-pack rings, straws, takeout containers, and cutlery.

The survey's results highlight widespread backing across different demographics and regions, underscoring a robust national consensus on addressing plastic pollution.

Key Findings:

• 84% of women and 80% of men support the single-use plastics ban.
• Support ranges from 72% in Alberta to 92% in Quebec.
• The ban is supported by 71% of Conservative voters, 86% of NDP voters, and 93% of Liberal voters.
• 82% of individuals over 60 and 85% of those under 30 are particularly concerned about the health impacts of plastics.
• 85% of women and 79% of men express concern about the health implications of plastic use.

Anthony Merante, Senior Plastics Campaigner, Oceana Canada, said: Canadians from coast to coast to coast have adapted to the ban on single-use plastics and seen the benefits. Canadians expect serious and practical action from the government to reduce waste and ensure products and systems are truly circular, safe, and of good quality.

Oceana Canada urges the Canadian government and political parties to prioritise addressing plastic pollution. This includes eliminating the sale of plastic packaging that is not collected and recycled within Canada.