Proposal to ban the manufacture and sale of plastic-stemmed cotton buds in Scotland

Overview

The purpose of this consultation is to gather views from stakeholders on the addition of secondary legislation under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 to introduce a ban on the manufacture and the sale of plastic-stemmed cotton buds. The proposed bans aim to further protect our seas from plastic pollution.

Why your views matter

The Scottish Government is seeking the views of any organisation or individual with an interest in these matters to ensure introducing secondary legislation fully addresses the environmental threat of plastic pollution caused by plastic-stemmed cotton buds entering our seas.

Reflecting the importance of the issue of marine plastic pollution, widespread awareness amongst relevant stakeholders and a wish to introduce legislation at the earliest opportunity, the consultation will run for an abbreviated period of eight weeks. Following this consultation, legislative proposals will be brought forward for scrutiny by the Scottish Parliament.

Download the consultation paper.

What happens next

Responses will be analysed and used as part of the decision making process, along with a range of other available information and evidence. We will publish a report of responses. Any proposed legislation will then be brought forward for scrutiny by the Scottish Parliament.