On 13 and 14 February four simulation activities of the European Parliament with the central theme “Plastic reduction” were successfully held at the premises of The Grammar School Nicosia.
The aim of the activity, in which a total of around 100 adult students participated, was to give the opportunity to young people to actively participate and interact constructively in an open discussion, with the initiative to co-decide on common measures to reduce plastic use. Through the action, young people were encouraged not only to exercise their right to vote in the upcoming European elections, but also to understand first-hand the role of MEPs.
The simulation provided students with the opportunity to discuss with the Changemakers team and professionals in the fields of political science and education the European Parliament’s law-making process. The importance of the European elections, amendments, and the voting process were explained.
The students acted as Members of the Parliament and discussed the proposal provided to them trying to reach a consensus on how and whether to move the proposal forward. The various political parties worked through their arguments and, in the end, the legislation was adopted unanimously.
As it emerged from the discussions and the voting on the proposed measures of the new law, the students found a common ground according to the position of the political group assigned to them and came up with the law.
The most important measures under the proposed law include:
- Introduction of a national deposit system that imposes a small fee on those who buy drinks in plastic bottles. This initiative is intended to incentivize recycling, as the amount is refunded when the empty bottle is returned.
- Manufacturers are fully responsible for the entire life cycle of plastic bottles including the creation and funding of dedicated infrastructure for the collection and recycling of plastic bottles.
- Implement large-scale public awareness campaigns to inform the public about the importance of recycling plastic bottles. These campaigns will highlight the benefits of the deposit scheme and provide information on the risks associated with inappropriate recycling practices.
- Impose fines on businesses and individuals who do not comply with the regulations. Fines will be imposed for not using the deposit scheme.
