The UAE will enforce a blanket ban on single-use plastic shopping bags from January 1, 2024, according to official news agency WAM.
The ruling will prohibit the import, production and circulation of single-use plastic bags.
This is the prelude to banning products made of single-use materials which will come into effect on January 1, 2026. This will cover plastic or foam products like cups, plates, cutlery, containers, boxes spoons, forks, knives, chopsticks, straws and stirrers.
However, the decision excludes some products, including thin bag rolls used to keep food items fresh. Products that are to be exported or re-exported are exempted, provided they are clearly labelled. Bags made out of recycled materials in the country are also exempted.
The authorities concerned are urged to develop mechanisms to minimise the production of single-use materials to package items such as earbuds, cigarettes, wet wipes and balloons.
The pan-UAE measure serves to shield the local environment from plastic contamination. The decision is hoped to curb the consumption of plastic and regulate its use at the federal level.
Consumers are encouraged to combine their effort to wean themselves off single-use plastic. For their part, the authorities plan to implement several measures that will incentivise use of sustainable alternatives. The relevant department must also ensure that these eco-friendly options are readily available through shopping centres and retail stores.
As of writing, at least four emirates have announced bans or regulated the use of plastic. In Abu Dhabi, a ban on single-use plastics has been in force since June 1, while in Dubai, since July 1, retailers are obliged to charge 25 fils per bag.
Sharjah introduced a 25-fil tariff per single-use plastic bag on October 1, with a ban all set to go into effect on January 1 next year. Umm Al Quwain banned single-use plastics from January 1.
