UAE | Environment
African answer to containing menace plastic bags
The South African Government imposed a blanket ban on all plastic bags thinner than 30 microns in 2003.
- Compiled by Sanya Nayeem, Community Journalist
- Published: 23:37 May 10, 2008
Dubai: The South African Government imposed a blanket ban on all plastic bags thinner than 30 microns in 2003.
The thickness of a human hair is 50 microns.
The plastic bag industry was given a year to phase out thin plastic bags and to replace them with thicker ones.
The South African Government collects a small environmental levy per shopping bag. The thicker plastic bags are more expensive to make, therefore it became too costly for retailers to give them away for free.
Shoppers were encouraged to re-use bags or use alternatives. Many people now use cloth or paper bags.
Taxes on durable bags helped to provide revenue for plastic bag recycling companies.
Related Links
The Congress of South African Trade Unions estimated that the ban caused 3,800 workers in the plastic bag industry to lose their jobs.
However, many new jobs were created in recycling industries and other jobs in plastic manufacturing and the retail sectors were retained.
More from UAE Environment
More from UAE
Latest news
- Dubai porter found dead inside container
- Dubai Municipality plans new zoo in emirate
- Strong winds and haze expected in the UAE
- Dubai Police deny reports of Burj Khalifa fire
- New road eases traffic problems in Dubai
- Abu Dhabi hosts strong man contest
- Farmers to be taught techniques to improve yield
- Keep recycling bins open
- President of Wollongong varsity about his plans
- Challenging role in Libya
- Parachuting event promises rich fare
- UAE ministry backs efficacy of Tas'heel system
- UAE students on research trip to Antarctica
- Brothers held in Sharjah for possessing heroin
- Fund drive for displaced Syrians launched
Community Reports
-
Keep recycling bins open
People should be allowed to do their part as the world moves towards a greener future
-
Bridges needed
Al Ittihad Road has no pedestrian facilities as one nears Sharjah
-
Street lights needed
Authorities urged to act with haste before a major accident occurs in Al Nahda, Dubai
-
Motorists ignore stop sign on buses
Overtaking school vehicles can put students' lives at risk
