Picture for illustrative purposes only. ARCHIVE

Dubai began a ban on single-use plastic bags on Monday (January 1) as part of UAE efforts to reduce plastic waste pollution. The ban also includes non-plastic, single-use products. Exemptions include trash bags, plastic bags made from recycled materials, and plastic bags for import or export, and cling wraps used for packaging meat, fish, vegetables, fruits, grains and bread. Companies that continue to use single-use plastic bags will be fined Dh200, which will be doubled in case the offence is committed again within 12 months. Phase two of the ban takes effect next year, starting on January 1, 2025 and will cover single-use plastic products, including plastic straws, plastic cups, Styrofoam food containers, plastic stirrers, table covers and plastic cotton swabs. On January 1, 2026, the ban will be expanded to include single-use plastic products including plastic plates, plastic food containers, plastic tableware, and beverage cups and their plastic lids. ICA/Expat Media
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