As part of the Abu Dhabi Single-Use Plastics Policy announced by the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) in 2020, a ban on a range of Styrofoam products will be implemented in the emirate starting from 1 June 2024. Styrofoam, a type of expanded polystyrene, is widely used in various packaging products.
The prohibited items include cups, lids, and dishes made of Styrofoam, as well as food packages for fast food or ready-to-eat meals. Exemptions from the ban are non-single-use expanded polystyrene products, such as large storage bins, cans for preserving meat, fish, vegetables, fruits, dairy products, and items intended for retail sale. Products designed for medical use are also excluded.
Her Excellency Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary General of EAD, commented on the initiative: “Following the successful implementation of the Single-Use Plastic Policy and the ban on single-use plastic bags in 2022, along with the launch of the bottle recovery initiative in 2023, the ban on certain Styrofoam products from 1 June 2024 will further reduce environmental waste and prevent plastic particles from entering the food chain.”
Dr. Al Dhaheri emphasized the need to balance consumer needs with environmental preservation. “We ensure that banned products can be replaced with sustainable alternatives, and we support both government agencies and the private sector in transitioning to reusable products.”
The success of the single-use plastic policy has been notable, with the consumption of 310 million single-use plastic bags avoided by the end of April 2024. Additionally, 95% of bags distributed at checkouts were reduced, preventing over 2,000 tons of plastic waste. In 2023, over 1,000 tonnes of vials, equivalent to 67 million vials, were collected.
H.E. Rashid Abdul Karim Al Balushi, Undersecretary of the Department of Economic Development – Abu Dhabi (DED), reiterated the department’s commitment to supporting environmental strategies. “The DED plays a crucial role in educating local businesses about the ban and preparing the private sector to adopt environmental alternatives.”
The DED has circulated the ban to over 50,000 commercial establishments and 80 plastic product industry facilities. An awareness program, in cooperation with the EAD, has been launched to inform businesses about the details of the ban and the products it targets. The program includes workshops and outlines the transition process to alternative materials.
Starting from June 1, 2024, the DED will conduct field inspections at local outlets and industrial facilities to ensure compliance with the ban.