In a significant move towards environmental conservation, the Municipality and Planning Department in Ajman have officially prohibited the use of single-use plastic bags in all shopping centers and sale outlets across the Emirate.
The ban, effective from January 2024, aligns with Ministerial Decision No. (380) of 2022, regulating single-use products in the country’s markets. This decision is also in compliance with Federal Law No. (2) of 2018 on integrated waste management and supports the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment’s initiative to make the UAE plastic bag-free.
Ban on single-use plastic in Ajman
Eng. Khalid Mueen Al Hosani, Executive Director of the Public Health and Environment Sector at the Department, highlighted the increasing availability of eco-friendly alternatives for shoppers. He emphasized the nation’s commitment to gradually reducing the production and usage of plastic bags, aligning with efforts to regulate plastic products and single-use bags. This move aims to combat plastic waste, enhancing environmental sustainability.
To enforce this decision, concerned departments have a three-month period to transition to eco-friendly bags. Eng. Khalid Mueen Al Hosani also mentioned that a tariff of 25 fils will be imposed on each single-use plastic bag during shopping, further encouraging the adoption of sustainable alternatives.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
