The Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Technology bans the import of 8 types of single-use plastics, effective from 1 June 2021. In order to acknowledge the environmental, social and health impacts of plastic pollution in the Maldives, Ministry of environment has formulated the “Single Use Plastic Phase-out Plan 2020-2023” and it is being endorsed by the government of Maldives.
This phase-out plan is a national initiative to phase out the production, import and consumption of certain single use plastics into the Maldives and promote the use of sustainable alternatives, in the effort to protect human health, and the vulnerable marine environment of the country. In addition, by using strategic awareness and educational campaigns, the aim is to reduce the consumption of single-use plastics, and nudge consumers to shift away from SUP’s, and use sustainable alternatives.
The following items Have been prohibited to import from 1st June 2021:
- Single-use plastic-based drinking straw
- Single-use plastic-based plates, cutleries and stirrers
- Plastic shopping bags below 30×30 cm
- Imported sweet areca nuts in plastic wrapping
- Single-use plastic drinking cups below 250ml
- Cotton bud with plastic stems
- Shampoo, soap, conditioner and lotion bottles in plastic packaging that are 50 ml and below
- All imported water packed in plastic bottles below 500 ml