The Ministry of Environment and Energy says no to the use and entry of plastic in Protected Wild Areas (ASP) of the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC) starting in February 2021.

In the week that celebrates National Parks Day and commemorating the 50th anniversary of the creation of the National Parks System, the Ministry of Environment and Energy issued directive SINAC-DE-944-2020 that prohibits single-use plastic in Protected Wild Areas (ASP) of the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC).

The directive prohibits the use and entry of single-use plastics in National Parks, Biological Reserves, and National Monuments starting February 25, 2021, six months after its signing. It also stipulates that the Conservation Areas of the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC) will strengthen the proper management of solid waste within their facilities.

In the application of the ban, some of the materials are the following: stirrers, straws, disposable cutlery, disposable cups and plates, non-reusable plastic bags, disposable plastic bottles and wrappers that are not part of the final product, among others.

This new environmental guideline will be mandatory for all people entering a Protected Wilderness Area and is part of the 2016-2021 Comprehensive Management Plan.

Pollution due to this problem with single-use plastic has been increasing since 1980, according to the Deputy Minister of Environment, Pamela Castillo, at an event held in Tortuguero National Park.

This week has been very important for the Ministry of Environment and Energy, because the Government also gave the appointment of its new Minister, Ms. Andrea Meza, who arrives with an enviable resume hoping to do a great job.

Written by: Enrique Hernández

General Management: Marco Montero