20220605 plastic bags
Umm Al Quwain ban the use of single-use plastic bags in the emirate with effect from January 1, 2023 Image Credit: Gulf News

Umm Al Quwain: The Executive Council of the Emirate of Umm Al Quwain has issued on Thursday a decision banning the use of single-use plastic bags in the emirate, starting from January 1, 2023.

Single-use plastic bags will be replaced in the emirate with multi-use bags, with specifications and technical standards approved by the Umm Al Quwain Municipality Department. The bags should be biodegradable or made of paper or fabric.

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The decision is aimed at protecting the environment from the dangers of plastic pollution; as well as enhancing and encouraging a culture of environmental protection and sustainability by reducing the consumption of single-use plastic bags and materials.

It also supports efforts to provide environmental-friendly alternatives, and ensures that multi-use bags and materials are handled in a sustainable manner

25 fils tariff

Sales outlets across Umm Al Quwain, are obligated to impose a tariff of no less than 25 fils from January 1 on each single-use plastic bag presented to the consumer, in preparation for the complete ban on single-use plastic bags in the emirate.

There should also be awareness initiatives that contribute to reducing the consumption of single-use plastic bags, as well as information on appropriate alternatives.