Dubai's Green Revolution: Sheikh Hamdan Initiates Ban on Single-Use Plastics

Introduction:

Welcome to a groundbreaking moment in Dubai's commitment to environmental preservation! H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council, has recently issued Executive Council Resolution No. 124 of 2023, heralding a ban on single-use plastic bags in the emirate. This visionary move, effective from January 1, 2024, signifies a significant stride towards a sustainable future, promoting eco-friendly living and reducing the ecological footprint.

1. Scope of the Resolution:

The resolution encompasses a broad spectrum, targeting single-use disposable and recycled items, whether plastic or non-plastic. From food delivery packaging materials to plastic containers, the regulations touch all corners of the Emirate, including private development zones and free zones like the Dubai International Financial Centre.

2. Municipality's Mandate:

Dubai Municipality, in collaboration with relevant entities, takes charge of organizing impactful awareness campaigns. These campaigns aim to educate and motivate the community to actively participate in reducing plastic usage. Sellers are encouraged to support initiatives promoting reusable alternatives, thereby minimizing environmental impact.

3. Phased Approach to Ban:

The ban is strategically phased, initiating with plastic bags on January 1, 2024, followed by non-plastic single-use products, including bags, on June 1, 2024. As of January 1, 2025, the ban extends to various single-use plastic products, with a comprehensive prohibition on selected items starting January 1, 2026.

4. Limited Exceptions:

While the resolution covers a wide range of single-use products, certain exceptions exist. These include single-use plastic bags serving specific purposes, such as packaging meat, fish, vegetables, fruits, grains, and bread, along with garbage bags. Exemptions are also granted for products intended for export or re-export outside the country.

5. Promoting Reusable Alternatives:

The Resolution urges relevant authorities, entities, and consumers to collaborate in reducing the production and consumption of single-use products. Sellers are mandated to actively participate in projects and initiatives targeting the reduction of plastic materials. Additionally, they are required to offer specified reusable alternatives at reasonable prices.

6. Non-Compliance Penalties:

Violators of the Resolution face fines of AED 200, with penalties doubling for repeated offenses within one year, up to a maximum of AED 2,000 when doubled. The resolution provides channels for contesting decisions through written grievances submitted to the Director-General of the relevant government department.

7. Resolution's Finality:

Emphasizing the finality of decisions on complaints, the Resolution annuls conflicting decisions and is set to be officially published in the Gazette.

Conclusion:

H.H. Sheikh Hamdan's decisive resolution underscores Dubai's unwavering dedication to environmental stewardship and sustainable practices. This transformative step against single-use plastics serves as an inspiration for responsible waste management, paving the way for a greener, more eco-conscious future. Join us on this journey towards a cleaner, more sustainable Dubai!