Dubai Municipality has said, through its official account on the "X" platform, that it will enforce a prohibition on disposable bags in the emirate, commencing on June 1st.
Effective June 1, 2024, Dubai has implemented a prohibition on the use of disposable bags... Let us collaborate in promoting sustainable behavior by use cloth bags to protect and maintain a more sustainable environment for ourselves and future generations.
In a publication on the "X" platform, Dubai Municipality provided a detailed explanation of the specific types of single-use bags that will be prohibited from use starting on June 1, 2024. Additionally, they clarified the sorts of bags that are exempted from this restriction.
The following bags are not allowed:
Polyethylene bags
Recyclable containers made of paper
Biodegradable bags manufactured from plant-derived materials
Compostable bags
Exempted from the restriction are bags that are designed for one-time usage.
Bags having a minimum thickness of 58 micrometers
Bags for storing fruit, meat, and fish
Plastic bags used for storing bread
Waste receptacles
The municipality has announced a ban on single-use bags across the emirate, effective from June 1, 2024.
The Department of Planning and Development - Trakhees, under the Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation, collaborated with the Environment, Health and Safety Department to conduct a joint inspection campaign with Dubai Municipality at the Chinese Dragon Mart. The purpose of this campaign was to ensure that all stores selling electronic cigarettes in the emirate comply with the approved procedures and standards.
The CEO of the Department of Planning and Development - Trakhees, Engineer Abdullah Belhoul, emphasized the department's commitment to taking appropriate actions to address any violations or illegal activities within the relevant areas, with the aim of safeguarding public health. He mentioned the establishment of a dedicated team, formed through a collaboration between the "Trakhees"Department and the municipality. Dubai will conduct a monitoring and inspection campaign during the holy month of Ramadan to guarantee that electronic cigarette items are registered and to verify the validity of the certificates required for the products exhibited in sales outlets.
Engineer Abdullah Belhoul clarified that these campaigns are conducted to detect any infractions committed by merchants and initiate legal actions against shop owners who violate the law. He pointed out that the campaign, carried out in collaboration with Dubai Municipality during the holy month of Ramadan, led to the issuance of 11 violations. The goods collected included a mix of items that either violated regulations or were expired. A total of 1,555 articles that did not satisfy specifications were seized. In addition to 10 places that were not complying with product trading regulations, two premises without a permission were also confiscated. These actions were taken as part of collaborative efforts to assure the authenticity of electronic cigarettes and the products being sold.
Engineer Abdullah Belhoul explained that the campaigns and inspection tours are part of the strategic plan of the "Trakhees" Department to safeguard the interests of consumers and enhance the quality of services provided to customers. He emphasized the significance of collaborating with relevant authorities to ensure the quality and appropriateness of the products on offer, with the ultimate goal of safeguarding public health and safety.
Engineer Abdullah Belhoul emphasized the importance of notifying all merchants and shop owners about the requirement to strictly follow health and safety regulations and standard specifications for the goods they sell. He also mentioned that the control campaigns aim to educate and inform merchants about the specific conditions and specifications that their products must meet in order to be sold in the markets.
Engineer Abdullah Belhoul emphasized that the "Trakhees" Department, in collaboration with relevant authorities, will consistently conduct comprehensive inspection campaigns at commercial stores and sales outlets. These campaigns aim to ensure the legitimacy of products and their adherence to approved regulations and legislation.
Dr. Naseem Mohammed Rafie, Acting Executive Director of the Environment, Health and Safety Foundation in Dubai Municipality, stated that the field campaigns and monitoring program were implemented to support the strategic directions and objectives of Dubai Municipality. This initiative aims to establish a sustainable health and environmental system that focuses on proactive prevention of public health issues. To establish a strong commitment to selling identical items in local marketplaces and combatting illicit actions, it is important to actively foster successful cooperation with strategic partners.
