Qatar Ramps Up Efforts To Curb Single-Use Plastic Bags

Doha, Qatar: On the occasion of International Plastic Bag Free Day, Qatar has reaffirmed its firm commitment to reducing the use of single-use plastic bags as part of its broader vision to protect the environment and promote sustainable development.

Led by the Ministry of Municipality and in collaboration with key stakeholders, the country marked the day with a series of awareness campaigns, community events, and policy-driven initiatives aligned with the national drive toward achieving Qatar Zero Waste and Qatar National Vision 2030.

According to Ministerial Decision No. 143 of 2022, the use of single-use plastic bags for packaging, handling, presenting, carrying, or transporting products and goods of any type is strictly prohibited for establishments, companies, and shopping centers. Furthermore, all plastic bags are required to be clearly printed with a symbol indicating whether they are biodegradable, reusable, or recyclable, depending on the material used in their manufacture.

To reduce reliance on single-use plastics, the government actively promotes alternatives such as bags made of paper, biodegradable plastic, reusable plastic, and fabric (woven) materials. These eco-friendly substitutes are intended to provide consumers with sustainable options that help protect the environment.

At the core of Qatar's efforts is an integrated legislative system that supports sustainable development and responsible waste management.

These legislative efforts are supported by widespread awareness campaigns, educational activities, public events, and partnerships with key stakeholders to enhance public understanding and participation in sustainable practices. Inspection campaigns are regularly conducted to ensure enforcement of regulations that aim to reduce the use of single-use plastic bags. The country engages the public directly through educational activities in commercial complexes and collaborates with the private sector, including factories and companies, to promote environmentally friendly alternatives and support compliance.

In a notable public-private partnership, the Ministry of Municipality-represented by Al Khor and Al Thakhira Municipality-collaborated with its partners to launch a comprehensive awareness campaign. This initiative aimed to educate the public about the provisions of Ministerial Decision No. 143 of 2022, highlighting its role in environmental protection and the conservation of natural resources.

In parallel efforts, the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MECC) conducted a public awareness campaign at Al Khor Harbor. The campaign included the distribution of environmentally friendly bags to fishermen and aimed to inform them about the harmful effects of plastic bags, especially when disposed of in the marine environment.

The Ministry of Municipality, represented by the Health Control Sections in all municipalities, has been implementing Ministerial Decision No. (143) of 2022 regarding the regulation of plastic bag usage since November 15, 2022. The decision prohibits institutions, companies, and shopping centers from using single-use plastic bags and mandates the use of biodegradable and environmentally friendly alternatives.

This ministerial decision on the regulation of plastic bag usage, which was issued in mid-June 2022, comes as a continuation of the Ministry's efforts to strengthen the legislative framework related to solid waste management. International Plastic Bag Free Day takes place on July 3 to raise awareness about the harmful effects of single-use plastic bags on the environment. It encourages people, businesses, and governments to adopt eco-friendly alternatives to reduce plastic pollution.

MENAFN04072025000063011010ID1109761678