Theresa May will pledge to eradicate all avoidable plastic waste in the UK by 2042.
The commitment is part of a 25-year plan to improve the natural environment being launched on Thursday.
In her speech to launch the plan the prime minister will say: "I think people will be shocked at how today we allow so much plastic to be produced needlessly."
But green groups are angry the proposals will have no legal force.
They say the plans could simply be shelved if they become inconvenient and the promise to stop "avoidable" plastic waste is too vague.
Labour suggested the proposals were a "cynical attempt at rebranding the Tories' image" while the Liberal Democrats said it "beggared belief" that a target of 2042 had been set for removing plastic waste and that action was needed now.
Under the plan, supermarkets will be urged to introduce "plastic-free" aisles while taxes and charges on single-use items such as takeaway containers will be considered.
Mrs May's announcements, which have been agreed by cabinet, will also include:
◾Confirmation of the extension of the 5p charge for plastic carrier bags to all retailers in England
◾Government funding for plastics innovation
◾A commitment to help developing nations tackle pollution and reduce plastic waste, including through UK aid
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-42639359