Italy is the first country in the EU to rule out the use of polythene bags. The move will save 180,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions.
Italians are amongst the top users of plastic bags in Europe, using more than 300 per person a year.
The ban was imposed on New Year’s Day. Consumers can now only use biodegradable, fabric, or paper bags.
Stefania Prestigiacomo, Italy’s environment minister, was reported saying: “This marks a key step forward in the fight against pollution and it makes us all more responsible in terms of recycling.”
He also said the government was launching a public awareness campaign to promote the use of bags made out of natural and recyclable materials “that don’t just have to be practicable and good for the environment but also fashionable.”
Environmental groups have welcomed the ban despite industry opposition.
via Telegraph
Silver Lining Says 
Posted on January 5, 2011
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