Oman extends single-use plastic bag ban in fifth phase

Muscat: The Environment Authority (EA) has begun implementing the fifth phase of the decision banning the use of single-use plastic bags, under Ministerial Decision No. (8/2024), as Oman continues its gradual move towards reducing plastic consumption and promoting environmentally sustainable practices.

Effective from July 1, 2026, the latest phase extends the ban to include a number of commercial activities, including furniture and carpet shops, gold shops, barber and tailoring shops, vehicle maintenance centres, and car showrooms.

The latest expansion follows a phased implementation strategy adopted by the authority to ensure a smooth transition for businesses and consumers while gradually reducing reliance on single-use plastic products.

The first phase of the ban was introduced in 2021, when Oman began restricting the use of thin plastic shopping bags in major commercial establishments, including shopping malls and large retail outlets. The move marked the beginning of a national initiative aimed at reducing plastic waste and encouraging the use of reusable alternatives.

In subsequent phases, the scope of the decision was expanded to cover more commercial activities and service sectors, requiring a wider range of businesses to stop providing single-use plastic bags. The gradual rollout allowed establishments time to adjust their practices and introduce alternative packaging solutions.

The EA said the initiative forms part of Oman’s broader environmental efforts to address the impact of plastic waste on ecosystems, wildlife, and natural resources. Single-use plastics are among the major contributors to waste accumulation due to their limited lifespan and difficulty in decomposition.

According to the authority, this initiative is aimed at raising awareness among businesses and consumers on the importance of reducing plastic consumption and adopting sustainable alternatives.

With the implementation of the fifth phase, the regulation now covers a wider range of commercial activities, which ,apparently, will reinforce Oman’s commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development.

It should be noted that plastic bags have a significant negative impact on the environment, primarily because they take many years to decompose. As they break down under sunlight, they release toxic substances into the soil, while burning them emits harmful chemicals into the air, contributing to air pollution.

In addition, plastic bags are often disposed of indiscriminately in landfills around the world, where they occupy large areas of land. During decomposition, these landfills emit greenhouse gases such as methane and carbon dioxide, along with highly toxic leachates that further contaminate the environment.

Improperly managed plastic bag waste also poses serious risks to both human and animal health. When not disposed of correctly, plastic bags contribute to littering and can block stormwater drainage systems, leading to environmental and infrastructure problems.

Therefore, the Environment Authority continues to call on businesses and the public to comply with the decision and contribute to reducing plastic pollution by choosing reusable and environmentally friendly options.