Before the pandemic, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said some single-use plastics would be eliminated by this year, however, COVID-19 delayed an assessment on which ones to target.

The government’s publishing draft regulations that will ban the manufacture, import and sale of plastic items that are hard to recycle and have alternatives that are more environmentally friendly.

Bags, stir sticks, cutlery, six-pack rings, and Styrofoam take-out containers will be eliminated entirely.

Some plastic straws will be permitted for those with disabilities and others who need them for medical reasons.

Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault says final regulations should allow the take to take effect by the end of next year.

”Smart, clear and collaborative regulations will help drive innovation across the country as reusable and easier-to-recycle items take their place,” said Guilbeault.

While advocacy groups such as Environmental Defence, welcome the ban it does have concerns about the export of plastics.

”The government must ban their manufacture for export or Canadian-made single-use plastic products will continue to pollute other countries,” reads a statement from the group.