‘Reject Plastics, Protect Future’: Ethiopia Bans Single-Use Plastic Bags, Official Announces
‘Reject Plastics, Protect Future’: Ethiopia Bans Single-Use Plastic Bags, Official Announces
Starting Saturday, Ethiopia has officially banned the production, sale, and use of single-use plastic bags, as announced by Lelise Neme, Director-General of the Ethiopian Environmental Protection Authority (EPA).
Neme warned that single-use plastics endanger human health—especially children—and severely damage soil and water resources. “The harm they cause today will shape the future we leave behind,” she reportedly said, urging citizens to act responsibly.
The ban comes from a waste management law passed by parliament in June last year and takes effect after a six-month grace period.
Nationwide public awareness campaigns preceded enforcement. Under the new law, individuals face fines up to 5,000 birr (~$32) for using or distributing banned bags; manufacturers and importers risk steeper penalties.
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