Global Journal of Science Frontier Research, H: Environment & Earth Science, Volume 23 Issue 1

Table 1: Opportunities in the EU Action Plan for Circular Economy Section (pages of action plan) Issue Opportunity Plastics (pp. 13- 14) Strategy on ‘Plastics in the Circular Economy’ (2017)-The Commission will adopt a strategy on plastics in the circular economy, addressing issues such as recyclability, biodegradability, the presence of hazardous substances of concern in certain plastics, and marine litter This is the main opportunity to ensure that circular economy measures to address marine litter are noted. Essential for stakeholders to contribute to the consultation and ensure key initiatives feature in the . Product Design (p.4) Promote the reparability, upgradability, durability, and recyclability of products by developing product requirements in the Ecodesign Directive (2016 onwards) Create economic incentives for better product design through provisions on extended producer responsibility (COM/2015/595) Offer upstream solutions that can reduce single-use or short life time products that could or are known to contribute to marine litter Production processes (p.5) Inclusion of guidance on best waste management and resource efficiency practices in industrial sectors in BREFs (e.g. Food Drink and Milk Industries; Production of Polymers; Surface Treatment of Metals and Plastics) (2016 onwards) Key aspects here relate to the extent that plastics can be recycled, and the quality of recycled plastics. Exploring for example the impact of additives such as flameretardants. Consumption (p.8) Revised waste proposal will provide new rules which will encourage reuse activities (COM/2015/595). Possible use of Product Environmental Footprint to measure and communicate environmental Engage and provide opportunities for behavioural change, which allow consumers to close the loop on plastics. Waste management (pp.8-11) Revised waste proposal: recycling 65% of municipal waste by 2030; recycling 75% of packaging waste by 2030; to reduce landfill to maximu of 10% of municipal waste by 2030; a ban on landfilling of separately collected waste; promotion of economic instruments to discourage landfilling; simplified and improved definitions and harmonised calculation methods Improved recycling reduces the risk of waste becoming marine litter. Implementation of waste hierarchy, see Figure 2. Plastic is a formally recognised target area so relevant action easier to promote. From waste to resource(p.13) Develop quality standards for secondary raw Materials-in particular for plastics. Improve rules on ‘end-of-waste’(2016onwards) Develop analysis on the interface between chemicals, products and waste legislation (2017) Develop the Raw Materials Information System Provides an economic argument for closing the loop. There is a need to help develop the market by providing information, awareness and legal clarity. Holistic Approach to Tackle (Micro) Plastic Pollution: The Case of Mauritius © 2023 Global Journals 1 Year 2023 24 Global Journal of Science Frontier Research Volume XXIII Issue ersion I VI ( H ) containing microbeads (e.g. via Beat the Bead), multiuse bottles and bags, purchase of washing machines with filters. In addition there are two further useful measures beyond the Action Plan • Fishing for litter: combined incentives to encourage action, and develop new products from waste. While this is not the most cost-effective of solution (efforts higher up the hierarchy are preferable), it can create interesting branding opportunities for manufacturers, raise awareness and contribute to reducing pressure on the marine environment in selective places. • Improved implementation: In addition, there is a need for better implementation of existing legislation on the release of litter, from terrestrial sources and at sea – e.g. The MARPOL Convention, Waste Framework Directive, Directive on Port Reception Facilities, Water Framework Directive and, Marine Strategy Framework Directive. In the action plan, opportunities to look closely at plastic pollution at all stages from production till disposal are elaborated below (Table 1).