Seafood industry welcomes Government
ban on microbeads
Seafood New Zealand has welcomed
the announcement that the Government will ban the use of
microbeads in make-up and other beauty products, citing
their impact on oceans and marine life.
Environment
Minister Nick Smith’s announcement of a ban on microbeads
is good news and one the industry is fully behind, Seafood
New Zealand Chief Executive Tim Pankhurst said.
“These
small plastic particles, which do not biodegrade are a
well-known hazard to the environment,” Pankhurst
said.
The microbeads are used as exfoliants but can be
replaced by other less damaging products.
“Research has
shown that fish may eat the particles, rather than natural
food sources, and they either die of starvation or their
growth is stunted before they reach maturity.
“The
minute beads are a hazard and are causing needless damage to
New Zealand’s waterways and seas.
“The ban is
effective July 2018 but it would preferable for that to be
brought
forward.”
Seafood New Zealand’s primarily focus is deepwater and inshore wild capture fisheries, but works closely with other sectors to ensure a thriving and sustainable seafood sector that is valued by New Zealanders and our trading partners.
New Zealand's seafood industry plays a key role in the country's economy, contributing around $2 billion in export earnings and employing more than 16,500 people, who provide New Zealand and the world with high quality, nutritious and great tasting seafood.
The seafood industry is committed to providing high quality careers in local communities through our sustainable and innovative provision of safe seafood.
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