The Environment Authority (EA) of Oman announced that the fifth phase of the country’s plastic shopping bag ban will take effect on July 1. This latest expansion targets additional commercial sectors as part of the government’s broader strategy to reduce plastic pollution and encourage sustainable consumption.

Under the new phase, the ban will extend to plastic bag use in furniture and blanket stores, shops dealing in daggers, gold and silverware retailers, car care centers, and car dealerships. The move constitutes a continuation of the phased national plan aimed at gradually decreasing reliance on single-use plastic bags.

Officials from the EA highlighted that this initiative seeks to address the environmental challenges posed by plastic waste, which has significant adverse effects on both terrestrial and marine ecosystems. By imposing stricter regulations on plastic bag usage, authorities aim to protect biodiversity and natural habitats throughout Oman.

The EA framed the ban as part of comprehensive national efforts to enhance environmental sustainability. The initiative supports the country’s goals of balancing developmental progress with natural resource preservation by promoting responsible production and consumption patterns. The Authority emphasized that these measures are intended to safeguard Oman’s environmental heritage for future generations.

This fifth phase follows previous steps that progressively limited plastic bag distribution across various retail and commercial sectors. The government’s sustained approach underscores its commitment to mitigating plastic pollution while encouraging alternative, eco-friendly options.

The enforcement of the expanded ban will require affected businesses to comply by discontinuing plastic shopping bags in their operations starting next month. The Environment Authority continues to monitor the implementation and promote public awareness to facilitate the transition toward more sustainable consumer practices.