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Dubai: Free distribution of bio-degradable garbage bags for residents by the Dubai Municipality will stop on May 31.
"The step is being taken by the civic body to curb the use of plastic bags by residents. They will now be required to purchase their plastic bags from supermarkets," said an official from the waste management department at Dubai Municipality.
"We have been distributing leaflets to inform residents of the move when they visit our 18 branches to pick up their free bags," said the official.
The civic body has been distributing free garbage bags for 30 years.
The official said the municipality is very keen to minimise and gradually halt the use of plastic bags as part of their environmental protection campaign.
On whether supermarkets would limit the number of garbage bags that an individual can purchase, the official said: "No, residents can buy as many as they want, but they will have to spend money, and that will serve as a deterrent. We would like residents to go for eco-friendly bags."
Gulf News has received an overwhelming response from its readers in its ongoing "No to Plastic Bags" campaign.
Many felt strongly that more needed to be done by private organisations and the civic body to spread awareness.
Readers have even suggested that every household and business be provided with recycling bins for bottles, glass, packaging and bags. There should be an education campaign to teach residents how to responsibly dispose of plastic bags.
"The municipality has collaborated with the private sector in the campaign against the use of plastic but, having said that, I would like to say that we also focus on recycling, including plastic, cans and paper.
There are also a number of private companies that are actively involved in recycling. These companies have people going around the city collecting cans, plastics and paper from the streets," said the official. He said there is a need to pay attention to household waste. He said recycling of organic waste should be encouraged as it comprises 40 per cent of total waste.
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