Map the Laws
Search the LawsHere we present notable legislation from around the world, as examples of legislation that is effective in certain regions and which may serve as a model for others.
What may constitute effective legislation varies by region, goals, and other context, such as culture. However, effective legislation tends to share specific commonalities, such as:
- Addressing the plastic pollution crisis at the source
- Reducing plastic production and use
- Centering around environmental justice
- Extending producer responsibility by holding corporations accountable
- Supporting a regenerative circular society that avoids plastic pollution and its toxic impacts
We encourage policymakers and advocates to use this Global Plastic Laws Database to find new policy developments, cultivate effective regulations, and further strategize about how legislation can eliminate our global reliance on plastics and end their harmful impacts on people and the planet.
Commentary on Effective Legislation
As a diverse set of legislatures approach plastic policy, there are tried and true guiding principles that can be included to ensure the policy is effective.
- Ten Requirements for Effective EPR – Beyond Plastics
- Model Beverage Container Recycling Act or “Bottle Bill” – Just Zero
Examples of Notable Legislation
To ensure strong, effective, enforceable legislation is passed, it is important to stay aware of policies designed to to regulate plastics throughout its existence. The laws below show some of the most comprehensive legislation passed to date globally.
