Sharjah Bans Use Of Plastic Bags From January 2024

Sharjah will ban single-use plastic bags from January 1, 2024. The decision in this regard was taken following a resolution issued by Sharjah's Executive Council (EC), on Tuesday.

Environmentally-friendly alternatives will be provided to shoppers prior to effecting the ban, reports stated.

In implementation of the directives of H.H Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, in continuation of the efforts of the environmentally friendly emirate and supportive of conservation plans, the EC issued a decision regarding the use of single-use plastic bags.

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According to the decision, as of January 1, 2024, it is prohibited to trade, produce, offer or import single-use plastic bags and materials in the emirate.

The Department of Municipal Affairs has been tasked with formulating plans and policies to implement the ban. It will also undertake consumer awareness programmes to help residents switch to multi-use and environment-friendly bags.

The decision aims at - Protecting the environment from the dangers of plastic pollution and reducing the negative effects resulting from harmful practices; and Enhancing and encouraging a culture of environmental protection and sustainability by reducing the consumption of single-use plastic bags and materials, leading to their ban.

The ban would also reduce consumption of single-use plastic bags and materials, and encourage environmentally friendly alternatives, apart from ensuring that multi-use bags and materials are handled in a sustainable manner.

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