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Thai cabinet approves banning three types of plastic-microbeads, cap seals and oxo-degradable plastics

  BANGKOK, Nov. 12 (Xinhua) -- The Thai cabinet on Tuesday approved to phase out three types of plastic -- microbeads, cap seals and oxo-degradable plastics before year end, said Thai Government spokeswoman Narumon Pinyosinwat.

  Narumon also said four other types of plastic -- lightweight plastic bags less than 36 microns thick, styrofoam food containers, plastic cups and plastic straws, will be banned by 2022.

  The cabinet meeting has also agreed to provide full support to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment's campaign to end the handing out of single-use plastic bags starting from January of next year.

  As part of the strategy in 'Thailand's Roadmap on Plastic Waste Management 2018-30,' all state agencies, including the Prime Minister's Office, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, and the Ministry of Interior, will push forward in enhancing public awareness against the use of single use plastics.

  "We will be collaborating with 43 private companies in crafting out plastic ban guidelines," said Natural Resources and Environment Minister Varawut Silpa-archa, "so I would like to tell all Thais to prepare paper or cloth bags before Thailand imposes its ban on single-use plastic bags in 2021."