President of Costa Rica, Carlos Alvarado, and the Minister of Environment Carlos Manuel Rodriguez, in the frame of the World Environmental Day, signed a directive that regulates the management, consumption and labeling of single use plastic in public institutions.

“These actions respond to the unequivocal commitment this government has to reach carbon neutrality of the economy”, expressed Alvarado.

The directive instructs the Ministry of Education, the Social Security Service (CCSS) and the Ministry of Justice to abstain from purchasing, using and consuming single use plastics, including Styrofoam, in all cafeterias in elementary schools and high schools, health system centers and institutions, as well as penitentiary systems.

Considered among single use plastics are: straws, stirrers, food containers, dishes and silverware, among others. These must be replaced with reusable or biodegradable alternatives.

The directive signed also orders public institutions to work in education and awareness campaigns regarding this topic.