Plastic is the cheapest and most durable packaging material, but its slow decomposition rate, ranging from 20 to 1000 years, poses significant environmental hazards. The lack of recycling contributes to its accumulation in landfills, waterways, seas, and oceans causing pollution and threatening marine life & human health.

Scientific studies have revealed alarming risks to human health, including cardiovascular disease, respiratory issues, cancer, fertility problems, and toxic metal poisoning. In response to these concerns, over 127 countries, including Jamaica, have implemented measures to regulate single-use plastics.

These factors and more led the MEGJC to declare PFS which began in July 2022. The aim of Plastic Free Summer is to educate the public on the potentially harmful impacts of plastic pollution on Jamaica's environment, the effort of the Ministry and its agencies to mitigate it, and what members of the public can do to make a difference.