The Federal Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination has taken a momentous step in its fight against pollution by announcing a complete ban on single-use plastics in the federal capital.
New Regulations and Heavy Fines
Recent reports reveal that the ministry has called for strict enforcement and heavy fines for the use, sale, and supply of single-use plastic products. Starting from 1 August, the ban will be in full effect in Islamabad, and any violations will be met with immediate penalties.
Comprehensive Ban on Single-Use Plastics
The department overseeing this initiative has issued a comprehensive ban that covers the use, manufacturing, import, distribution, delivery, sale, storage, and purchase of single-use plastic items. This includes plastic bags, cutlery such as spoons, forks, and knives, as well as food service boxes, cups, plates, and bowls.
Restricted Usage in Public Places
Going forward, single-use plastic items will no longer be allowed in hotels, stalls, parks, or entertainment venues. Strict monitoring and regulation will be in place to ensure compliance, and severe consequences await anyone found in possession of or using such items.
Fines for Non-Compliance
To ensure compliance, producers and importers of single-use plastics will face a substantial fine of Rs. 1 million. Similarly, shopkeepers, stallholders, hawkers, and suppliers selling these prohibited items will be subject to a fine of Rs. 10,000. Citizens caught using single-use plastic items in parks and on roads will be fined Rs. 1,000 on the spot.
Awareness Campaign to Promote the Ban
The Ministry of Climate Change has instructed the Environmental Protection Agency to launch an awareness campaign about the ban, beginning on 1 August. Notably, Punjab had already implemented the ban on 1 July.
