It was just a matter of time before businesses raised their voices against the proposed phasing out of single-use plastics.

The most vocal was definitely plastic manufacturers and firms that produce mineral water and soft drinks.

Though some welcomed the ban, they want more time to adapt as they argue that the two-year grace period will lead to major financial losses.

Yes, it is a major blow to those who invested in single-use plastic manufacturing, and they will be wondering what to do their soon-to-be-obsolete machinery. While the grace period is subject to negotiations, the final outcome will be final.

So, concerned parties should take this time to outsource new ideas, experiment with new types of packaging, transfer their businesses outside or sell their equipment to some of the neighbouring countries.

It is a natural reaction; people are always averse to change. The same fear of the unknown first greeted the plastic bags ban. They were wondering how they would survive without something that had accompanied them throughout their lives.

Today they have moved on, alternative packaging manufacturing firms have cropped up and filled the void of the plastics and helped keep the city and country at large in spick-span conditions.

Recycling plants have also found a niche market and transformed a terrified-of-change state of mind into a win-win situation for all. It just needs taking the first step and everything else will fall into place.

There are many bigger things at stake, especially the future of our planet.