Oman moves to third phase of plastic bag ban, Environment Authority warns of grave marine impact

Dubai: As Oman has rolled out the third phase of its plastic bag ban on Tuesday, July 1, the country’s Environment Authority is intensifying its public awareness campaign, warning of the profound and lasting environmental consequences of single-use plastic.

In a statement, the authority described plastic pollution as a critical threat to marine ecosystems and biodiversity.

“A single plastic bag may seem harmless, but it leaves a profound impact on marine life and our environment for decades,” the statement read. “Your simple decision to use sustainable alternatives makes a big difference.”

 The latest phase of the ban will extend to food stores, fruit and vegetable shops, bakeries, confectionery shops and gift stores.

Previous phases had already restricted plastic bag use in pharmacies, hospitals, and clinics beginning July 1, 2024, and were further expanded in January 2025 to include clothing, tailoring, eyewear, mobile phone, watch and furniture outlets.

The Environment Authority highlighted the ecological toll of plastic waste, particularly on marine animals such as fish, turtles, and whales. These creatures often mistake plastic bags for food, leading to fatal ingestion or entanglement.

The statement also warned that plastic does not decompose easily and lingers in the water, polluting ecosystems and threatening the food chain.

“Even a single plastic bag can cause significant and lasting damage to marine life,” the authority reiterated, urging consumers to adopt reusable alternatives.