Dominica to ban plastics & Styrofoam by January 2019 by: -

Government has announced a decision to ban a number of items considered to be inimical to the environment including plastic and Styrofoam containers by 1 January 2019.

The announcement, made by Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit on Wednesday 25 July 2018 during his presentation of the 2018-2019 budget, will help the country to reflect the “Nature Island” designation in every way.

“Consistent with the Government’s vision to create the world’s first climate resilient nation, our designation as “The Nature Isle” and our commitment to protect Mother Earth, effective 1st January 2019, a number of items considered to be inimical to the environment will be banned,” Mr. Skerrit stated.

This ban will include plastic straws, plastic plates, plastic forks, plastic knives, Styrofoam cups, and Styrofoam containers.

“The necessary legislation will be prepared, part of which will be the full list of items which will be subject to the ban,” Mr. Skerrit stated.

The Prime Minister had announced in a previous budget address, a decision to restrict the importation of non-biodegradable containers and plastic implements used in food service.

He acknowledged on Wednesday that this matter “has not proceeded as quickly as we would have liked” as government had to ensure that it implemented that policy without compromising obligations under the revised Treaty of Chaguaramas, but added that it is acceptable for a country to adopt measures which will help in the preservation of the environment.