Abu Dhabi authorities will ban single-use Styrofoam products from June 1.

Photo-Abu Dhabi Media Office

The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD), in alignment with its Single-Use Plastic Policy introduced in 2020, is set to enforce a ban on various Styrofoam products in Abu Dhabi starting from June 1, 2024. This move is aimed at curbing the usage of avoidable single-use consumer items made of expanded polystyrene, commonly known as Styrofoam.

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The banned products include cups, lids, plates, beverage containers, and food container receptacles intended for immediate consumption. However, exemptions are made for certain products not designed for single-use consumption, such as storage boxes, coolers, trays for retail food items, and medical products. Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary General of EAD, emphasized the ban's role in reducing environmental litter and the harmful effects of Styrofoam on human health and biodiversity.

The success of previous initiatives under the Single-Use Plastic Policy, including the reduction of single-use plastic bags and the introduction of a bottle return scheme, underscores the commitment to sustainable practices. Rashed Abdulkarim Al Blooshi, Undersecretary of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), reiterated ADDED's support for eco-friendly strategies and its role in raising awareness among commercial outlets and industrial facilities to comply with the ban. ADDED has initiated an awareness program and will conduct field inspection campaigns to ensure compliance with the ban across Abu Dhabi.