Bermuda tables legislation to phase out harmful single-use plastics

The Government of Bermuda has tabled new legislation aimed at creating a legal framework to gradually transition away from the most harmful single-use plastics through consultation, science, and a phased approach.

Jache Adams told legislators that Bermudians have long voiced concern about the growing threat of plastic pollution and the need to safeguard the island’s environment.

Adams said the proposed Single‑Use Plastics Act 2026 is not designed to ban all plastic items immediately, but instead establishes a legislative structure to regulate single-use plastics in a sustainable and measured manner.

“It empowers the Government to add items to a schedule only after consultation, only after listening to stakeholders and only after determining that alternatives are viable for both our environment and our economy,” Adams said.

He stressed that the government is not rushing into blanket bans, noting that businesses, environmental organisations, students, seniors, and other stakeholders will be consulted before restrictions are introduced.

“Instead, this Bill lays the foundation on which we will build a careful, well-managed transition that works for the entire country,” he added.

Adams also addressed concerns about immediate bans, clarifying that the legislation does not impose an island-wide prohibition on all single-use plastics.

“What we are setting in place is a gradual, phased programme, one that ensures businesses and consumers have time to adjust, the Government has time to inform and the country has time to shift behaviour responsibly,” he said.

He noted that plastic straws could be among the first items considered for restriction, but only after public consultation and the establishment of reasonable timelines.

“Our goal is not disruption, our goal is progress,” Adams stated, emphasising that Bermuda’s environment is critical not only for its natural beauty but also for its economy and cultural identity.

“Our marine ecosystem is the foundation of our tourism industry, our fishing sector and the health of our people. Yet around the world, and yes, even here at home, plastic pollution threatens that foundation,” he said.

Adams warned that plastic waste breaks down into microplastics that are increasingly being found in water, sand, marine life, and even human bodies, describing the issue as grounded in established scientific evidence.

He cited environmental organisations including Keep Bermuda Beautiful and Beyond Plastics Bermuda, which have long raised concerns about plastic pollution.

According to Adams, Keep Bermuda Beautiful’s clean-up data has shown a growing presence of plastic fragments on beaches, often from single-use convenience items. Beyond Plastics Bermuda has also called for action to preserve the island’s environmental health for future generations.

“Environmental protection should not be a partisan endeavour. It is a shared responsibility,” Adams said. “If we cannot unite around protecting the waters that sustain us, then what can we unite around?”

He added that the next phase of the process will include a comprehensive consultation period, with written submissions, stakeholder meetings, and evaluation of practical alternatives.

“We will invite written submissions, host stakeholder meetings and explore the availability of practical alternatives. Just as important, we will work to ensure that environmentally friendly replacements are accessible and affordable,” Adams said.

The proposed legislation marks what the government describes as a significant step toward reducing plastic pollution while ensuring a responsible and inclusive transition for Bermuda’s businesses and residents.