MUSCAT: Oman has achieved a total recycling rate of around 39 per cent, recycling about 1.37 million tonnes of waste.
The country is also witnessing steady growth in recycling infrastructure, with 96 recycling facilities operating across various waste streams.
Plastic recycling has become one of the fastest-growing sectors. Oman currently has 26 plastic recycling factories, which process different types of plastic waste into valuable raw materials that are used in the manufacture of new plastic products. These facilities play a vital role in reducing plastic waste, conserving natural resources, and creating new economic opportunities within the circular economy, pointed out Azhar al Hinai, the director of chemicals and waste management at the Environment Authority.
Speaking to the Observer, she said, "Oman has made remarkable progress in developing its recycling sector as part of its commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, and advancing the transition towards a circular economy."
Azhar leads the development of national policies, regulations, and strategies for the sustainable management of chemicals and waste, while overseeing environmental compliance and initiatives that support the transition towards a circular economy, resource efficiency, and environmental protection. "These efforts are complemented by national initiatives to reduce plastic pollution, including the ban on single-use plastic shopping bags, which supports responsible production and consumption while contributing to the objectives of Oman Vision 2040," she pointed out.
The Authority is also working to encourage investment in sustainable alternatives, strengthen environmental compliance, and support innovation in environmentally friendly packaging materials. These efforts contribute to achieving the objectives of Oman Vision 2040 and reducing plastic pollution across the country.
Plastic shopping bags have become one of the most common forms of litter due to their widespread use and lightweight nature. They are frequently found in urban areas, public parks, beaches, wadis, deserts, and marine environments, where they can persist for many years if not properly managed.
"The environmental impacts are significant. Plastic bags can block drainage systems, contribute to pollution, and pose serious risks to wildlife. Marine animals, birds, and livestock may mistakenly ingest plastic bags or become entangled in them, leading to injury or death. As plastic bags gradually break down into microplastics, they can contaminate soil, freshwater, and marine ecosystems, with potential long-term impacts on biodiversity and human health," she explained.
Beyond the environmental consequences, plastic bags also represent a loss of valuable resources that could otherwise be reduced, reused, or recycled within a circular economy.
The Environment Authority has adopted a comprehensive approach to reduce plastic bag consumption as part of Oman’s commitment to environmental sustainability and the transition towards a circular economy.
A major milestone was the issuance of Environment Authority Decision No 8/2024, which prohibits the use of single-use plastic shopping bags across all commercial establishments in Oman.
"The regulation promotes the adoption of environmentally friendly alternatives while encouraging sustainable consumer behaviour," Azhar explained.
In addition to regulatory measures, the Authority conducts nationwide awareness campaigns in collaboration with government entities, educational institutions, the private sector, and civil society organisations to promote reusable bags and responsible consumption.
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