SEATTLE (Recycling Monster): An executive order that bans purchase of single-use plastic bottles by Massachusetts state agencies was signed by Governor Maura Healey yesterday. The order will cover all beverages that come in a sealed rigid plastic bottle having capacity of 21 ounces or less.

As per the order, all executive offices and agencies of the executive department are required to stop purchasing single-use plastic bottles. A summary of steps taken to halt the expenditures of state funds for the purchase of single-use plastic bottles need to be submitted on or before 31st December, 2023. The order will be in place until amended, superseded, or revoked by subsequent order.

The move was hailed by climate change experts, who noted that reducing the reliance on single-use plastic, whose production process uses fossil fuels, is an important step forward to protect the environment.

On the contrary, the International Bottled Water Association voiced their concerns. In a letter to the Governor, it said that the ban will lead to higher GHG emissions. Moreover, it will limit the government’s ability to respond to water requirements at the time of crises.

As per rough estimates, Americans throw away nearly 2.5 million plastic bottles every hour.