Question reference: S6W-10321
- Asked by: Monica Lennon, MSP for Central Scotland, Scottish Labour
- Date lodged: 16 August 2022
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Current status: Answered by Lorna Slater on 7 September 2022
Question
To ask the Scottish Government how microplastics, such as those from artificial sports pitches, (a) can be safely disposed of and (b) recycled in Scotland.
Answer
Through the ‘Pitch In’ project, KIMO International and the NGO Fidra , have developed a community toolkit and best practice guidance to reduce the source of microplastic pollution. This includes information on reducing this source of microplastic pollution. Marine Scotland is working with stakeholders to support the implementation of this guidance in Scotland.
The Scottish Government is also taking action on the issue of microplastics pollution from plastic pellets, powders and flakes. We have supported the plastic industry’s voluntary ‘Operation Clean Sweep’ initiative which gives guidance for best handling practice, and are currently working with the industry to develop an auditable full supply-chain certification approach to reduce plastic loss from all businesses handling this material.