The Metropolis of Lyon voted, during its September 2024 Council meeting, for an ambitious action plan aimed at reducing (or even eliminating!) the use of plastic in its territory. This program, entitled “Zero Plastic”, is part of a large-scale ecological approach, carried out in partnership with Zéro Waste France and Zéro Waste Europe.
The objective is to reduce the use of single-use plastic while promoting the reuse of materials. This commitment reflects a clear desire to act against a global environmental and health crisis linked to the excessive production of plastic.
The consumption and production of plastic has exploded in recent decades, posing numerous problems. Today, more than 50% of global plastic production is dedicated to single-use products. These plastics, often non-biodegradable, are found in the environment, fragmented into micro and nanoparticles, causing considerable damage to ecosystems. The consequences are multiple: pollution of soils, oceans and contamination of the food chain. The problem is not limited to the environment, as these plastics also contain dangerous additives, such as endocrine disruptors, which pose a risk to public health.
In this context, the Lyon Metropolis wishes to act at the source by reducing the production of single-use plastic.
Recycling, while important, is not enough. Less than 10% of plastics are currently recycled globally. The solution therefore relies on reducing the use of plastic and developing alternatives, such as reuse, deposits or the use of more environmentally friendly materials.
The Lyon Metropolis’ zero plastic action plan aims to accelerate this transition.
IIt builds on several concrete actions already initiated in 2024 and plans new initiatives for the years to come. Here are some examples of the measures implemented as part of this program:
– Support and loan of reusable tableware: The Métropole offers a free loan service for returnable tableware and mobile water fountains for events organized in the area. The objective is to support 30 structures per year in this process.
– Creation of a network of eco-responsible events:
The plan plans to bring together up to 200 partner structures around eco-responsible events, thus reducing the impact of public events in terms of plastic waste.
– Development of committed businesses:
The program encourages retailers to adopt eco-responsible packaging practices, with initiatives such as “My Merchant excites me for the long term” et “My Gourde Friendly”, aimed at reducing plastic packaging and promoting the use of returnable bottles.
Delivery of meals using reusable tableware: A study is underway, in partnership with the municipalities, for the establishment of a system of reusable returnable tableware in the home meal delivery services of the Municipal Social Action Centers (CCAS ).
– Raising awareness with the show “Plastic Planet” :
In 2024-2025, a tour of 40 performances of the show “Planète Plastique” will be organized in the municipalities of the Metropolis to raise awareness among the general public of the environmental issues linked to the use of plastic.
– Resources for municipalities:
The plan also provides resources and solutions to help municipalities reduce the use of plastic during their events. It offers tools such as a “reuse pack” for events and a plastic-free purchasing library.
This action plan is part of a broader dynamic that includes municipalities and institutional partners, in order to pool efforts and consolidate the initiatives already underway in the region. The Lyon Metropolis therefore wishes to make the reduction of plastic a real lever for ecological transition and the promotion of reuse.
In parallel with these concrete actions, the zero plastic plan also helps to raise awareness among residents. of the Metropolis to environmental issues. By directly involving citizens, businesses and civil society actors, the Metropolis hopes to drive a lasting change in behavior and encourage the transition to a circular economy.
Beyond local borders, this initiative could inspire other communities in France and Europe. It highlights the capacity of territories to take concrete action to combat plastic pollution, while promoting more sustainable and environmentally friendly consumption patterns.
Finally, this plan marks an important step in the fight against the environmental and health crisis caused by plastic. By relying on local actions, the Lyon Metropolis proves that it is possible to act on its scale while having a global impact. The long-term goal is to significantly reduce the production of single-use plastic and encourage the adoption of reusable solutions, while raising awareness among citizens of the importance of protecting our environment and our health.
