Ban on single-use plastics from Aug 1

ISLAMABAD: In order to curb plastic pollution, the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination has decided to enact complete ban on single-use plastics within the boundaries of Islamabad from August 1.

As per official sources from the ministry, the ban encompasses a wide range of single-use plastic products, including but not limited to plastic food containers, fast food and beverage-related service equipment such as plastic crockery, sugar forks, knives, spoons, cutlery, lidded containers, boxes, cups, plates, and bowls.

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Stringent penalties have been established for those who violate the ban. Offenders can face fines ranging from one thousand to one million rupees, depending on the severity of the violation.

In addition, the ministry has outlined specific fines for different stakeholders involved in the production and distribution of single-use plastic items. Producers and importers of such goods may be fined up to Rs 10 lakh, while shopkeepers, hawkers, stockholders, and suppliers could face fines of Rs 10,000. Even buyers are not exempt from responsibility and may be fined up to Rs 1,000 if found using single-use plastics in the prohibited zone.

The ban on single-use plastics in Islamabad marks a significant stride in the ongoing efforts to combat plastic pollution and build a greener, cleaner Pakistan.