The Vanuatu government has signed orders limiting the use of plastic and regulating waste throughout its 82 islands.

Photo: paktaotik2/123RF

The orders addressed the control of single-use plastic bags, plastic straws and polystyrene takeaway boxes, littering and the licensing of private waste operators.

From July 1, it would be an offence to manufacture, sell or give away single-use plastic bags, plastic drinking straws and polystyrene boxes.

The only exception would be the use of plastic to wrap and carry fish or meat.

Vanuatu's government started implemtenting a ban on single-use plastic bags being imported and manufactured in the country at the end of January.

Companies and retailers were given a grace period of six months to use up their current stock of single-use plastic bags and polystyrene takeaway boxes.

On February 1 this year, new laws on littering took effect, with fines of US$45 for a first offence or US$90 for subsequent dumping of rubbish in public.

The government has also been consulting with private waste operators who now have to be licensed to operate any landfill, recycling centre, waste treatment plant, composting plant or incinerator.

Vanuatu's Department of Environmental Protection and Conservation said it wanted to inform the general public about the changes and is working with partners to develop awareness about the moves.