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‘Environmental nonsense’: Here’s why France wants to ban bottled water

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By illuminem briefings

· 2 min read


illuminem summarizes for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on Euronews or enjoy below:

🗞️ Driving the news: A French lawmaker, Pierre Cazeneuve, has proposed a ban on small plastic water bottles under 50cl, labeling them "environmental nonsense"
The bill aims to address the disproportionate amount of plastic used for minimal water content. It will need to go through parliamentary debate and approval to become law

🔭 The context: France already has legislation targeting single-use plastics, banning items like straws and take-away containers
However, plastic water bottles have not been covered, despite producing 13 billion bottles annually, many of which aren't recycled
Public support for stricter regulations is significant, with two-thirds of French citizens favoring a ban on small plastic bottles

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: The initiative could significantly reduce plastic waste, as non-recycled bottles contribute to ocean pollution and environmental degradation
Reducing small bottle use aligns with France's ongoing efforts to minimize single-use plastics
The proposal could set a precedent for other nations aiming to curb plastic waste

⏭️ What's next: The bill's passage is uncertain due to a divided parliament and the lack of a majority party
If it progresses, France may expand efforts to promote reusable bottles and public water refilling options
The debate could also reignite scrutiny of the bottled water industry and its environmental practices

💬 One quote: "These bottles contain 20-25 grams of plastic for just three or four sips of water" - Pierre Cazeneuve, underscoring the wastefulness of small plastic bottles

📈 One stat: At least 13 billion plastic bottles are produced each year in France, with many ending up unrecycled

Click for more news covering the latest on pollution and ethical governance

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