Abu Dhabi Bans Styrofoam Products From June 1 as Part of Single-Use Plastic Policy

UAE, Abu Dhabi: The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) has announced to bans Styrofoam products in the emirate, effective from June 1. This decision is part of EAD’s “Single-Use Plastic Policy,” launched in 2020.

The ban targets avoidable single-use consumer products, specifically Styrofoam items like cups, lids, plates, and beverage containers. Abu Dhabi aims to reduce environmental litter and promote sustainability through this initiative.

Abu Dhabi Bans Styrofoam Products to Reduce Environmental Impact

Styrofoam, a type of expanded polystyrene, breaks easily into microplastics. These can enter the food chain, posing risks to human health and biodiversity. Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, EAD Secretary-General, emphasized the importance of reducing such litter in the environment.

“We strive to balance consumer convenience with environmental conservation. Therefore, we have selected only avoidable single-use plastics for the ban,” Dr. Al Dhaheri said. She noted that sustainable alternatives are available for these items.

Exempted from the ban are products not designed for single consumer use, such as large storage boxes, coolers, and trays for meat, fruit, and dairy products. Medical-use items are also exempted.

Support for Transition to Reusable Solutions

The EAD has been proactive in reducing single-use plastics. Since the launch of the Abu Dhabi Single-Use Plastic Policy, 310 million single-use plastic bags have been avoided up to April 2024. Retailer cash counters have seen a 95% reduction in the distribution of these bags. In weight, this equates to over 2,000 tonnes of single-use plastic bags avoided.

Additionally, more than 1,000 tonnes of plastic bottles, equivalent to 67 million bottles, were collected last year. Dr. Al Dhaheri highlighted that the EAD will support government and private sector entities in shifting towards reusable solutions.

ADDED’s Commitment to Environmental Strategies

Rashed Abdulkarim Al Blooshi, Undersecretary of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), reaffirmed ADDED’s commitment to supporting eco-friendly strategies. He stressed the importance of providing the best conditions for business while preserving the environment.

ADDED has shared the circular on the Styrofoam ban with over 50,000 commercial establishments and 80 industrial facilities involved in plastic manufacturing. An awareness program, coordinated with EAD, targets these establishments to introduce the ban policy and the targeted Styrofoam products.

Starting June 1, 2024, ADDED will conduct field inspections on sales outlets and industrial establishments to ensure compliance with the ban across Abu Dhabi. This initiative aims to foster a transition to environmentally friendly alternatives, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s dedication to sustainability and environmental protection.

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