Hainan to ban disposable plastic bags, tableware by 2020

Disposable plastic bags and tableware that are non-degradable will be phased out by 2020 in China's island province of Hainan, the provincial department of ecological environment announced Thursday.

The production, sale and use of such plastic products, in addition to bags and tableware, will be prohibited by 2025 in the province, a popular tourist destination in South China.

According to the government plan, Hainan will establish and perfect the regulations on banning plastic items by the end of the year. Administration and law enforcement will also be enhanced while ensuring the supply of alternative products.

Besides phasing out factories in the province, plastic products from other areas will also be barred from entering the island.

The R&D and promotion of biodegradable plastics have been stepped up to fully replace disposable plastic products, according to Deng Xiaogang, head of the department.