The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) has launched a 12-week public consultation on its new Plastic Pollution Plan for Northern Ireland (PPP NI), inviting individuals and organisations to help shape the region's approach to tackling plastic waste.

The consultation, which opened on 2 July and will run until 24 September 2025, sets out a roadmap for reducing plastic pollution and moving towards a more circular economy.

Plastic pollution remains a global issue, with an estimated 142.6 million tonnes of plastic packaging produced annually. In Northern Ireland alone, over 250 million plastic bottles are discarded each year.

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The Plastic Pollution Plan outlines existing policies and proposed actions aimed at reducing plastic waste across the region. It also seeks public input on potential new measures that could further limit the environmental impact of plastic use.

DAERA Minister Andrew Muir said: "Despite efforts made to date to tackle plastic pollution, it remains a serious problem in Northern Ireland. Everyone has a role to play in tackling plastic pollution.

"We need to do more to end the overconsumption of natural resources and unsustainable waste streams. The actions set out in this plan can help create new economic opportunities and good green jobs, as well as creating a cleaner environment for all.

"That's why I am inviting all who wish to contribute to building a cleaner and more resilient environment to respond to the public consultation."