Dubai Implements Comprehensive Ban on Single-Use Bags to Combat Plastic Pollution

The new regulation is part of a broader initiative to minimize plastic waste and encourage a culture of recycling within the community. The ban, which follows Dubai’s earlier phase-out of single-use plastic bags six months ago, aims to significantly reduce the city’s environmental footprint

Dubai, June 1, 2024In a bold move towards environmental sustainability, Dubai has implemented a sweeping ban on all single-use bags, regardless of material, under effect from yesterday.

Retail outlets across the city are now prohibited from offering single-use bags at checkout, including paper and biodegradable options.

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The new regulation is part of a broader initiative to minimize plastic waste and encourage a culture of recycling within the community.

The ban, which follows Dubai’s earlier phase-out of single-use plastic bags six months ago, aims to significantly reduce the city’s environmental footprint.

Previously, consumers paid a nominal fee of 25 fils per single-use bag, but this option is no longer available.

Retailers are also not mandated to provide alternative bagging options, urging customers to switch to reusable cloth bags instead.

Dubai Municipality has outlined strict guidelines for the ban, which encompasses all single-use bags less than 57 micrometres thick.

Exceptions are made for specific types of bags, including those used for bread, rubbish bin liners, wrapping bags for vegetables, meats, fish, chicken, laundry, electronic devices, and grains. Bags that are 58 micrometres thick or more are not included in the ban.

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The new regulation addresses the environmental challenges posed by biodegradable bags, which, despite being more eco-friendly than traditional plastics, require a separate recycling process.

If not properly disposed of, biodegradable bags can break down into microplastics, contaminating soil and water sources.

Businesses that fail to comply with the ban will face penalties. The initial fine for violations is set at Dh200 ($55), doubling for repeat offenses within a year, up to a maximum of Dh2,000.

This stringent enforcement is part of Dubai’s strategy to ensure adherence to the new rules and promote environmental responsibility among businesses.

The campaign to eliminate single-use bags is part of a phased approach. The first phase, effective today, targets all single-use bags. The second phase, starting January 1, 2025, will extend the ban to include styrofoam containers and cups, plastic stirrers, straws, table covers, and cotton swabs.

By January 1, 2026, the final phase will see a ban on single-use plastic cups, lids, cutlery, food containers, and plates.

The urgency of this initiative is underscored by a powerful awareness campaign highlighting the deadly impact of plastic waste on marine life.

A banner held by a diver at the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo proclaimed, “Single-use plastic kills more than 100,000 marine animals in a year,” urging residents to participate in the shift towards reusable alternatives.

Supermarket chains in Dubai are already adapting to the new regulations. Spinneys Dubai, for instance, ceased offering single-use plastic bags in mid-2022 and now provides reusable bags made from 100% post-consumer recycled materials for Dh1.

Customers receive a 25 fils discount on their shopping bills for reusing these bags. Warwick Gird, GM Marketing at Spinneys, noted the retailer’s proactive efforts to phase out other single-use materials, including plastic cutlery and polystyrene packaging.

This comprehensive ban aligns with the UAE’s broader environmental policies. A nationwide ban on single-use plastic was introduced in 2024, resulting in a 95% reduction in plastic use within the first year, according to the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi.

Additionally, Abu Dhabi’s ban on styrofoam products takes effect today, further reinforcing the country’s commitment to sustainability.

Dubai’s pioneering efforts mark a significant step towards a greener future, setting a benchmark for environmental conservation in the region and beyond.

 

Retail outlets across the city are now prohibited from offering single-use bags at checkout, including paper and biodegradable options

Tariq Saeed

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