Tanzania is the latest African country to ban plastic bags

science and technology

In an effort to counter the plastic pollution that is hurting marine life in particular and the environment in general, Tanzania has taken an important step by implementing the plastic bag ban, with Africa leading efforts to stop the flow of plastic harmful to the depths of the ocean.

According to the scientific site "Phys", Tanzania prohibits the importation, production, sale and use of plastic bags, becoming the 34th African country implementing such restrictions, according to the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP).

The resolution states that once the country reaches June 1, the government will not tolerate anyone who will be caught using plastic bags.

Plastics

Tanzania, where wildlife is a popular tourist destination, has issued a notice to passengers that they will have to hand over their plastic bags before entering the country.

"The government expects that in recognition of the need to protect the environment and preserve the cleanliness and beauty of our country, our visitors will accept simple inconveniences caused by the banning of plastic bags," the statement said.

If anyone who manufactures or imports plastic bags and plastic wrap is fined one billion Tanzanian shillings (430,000 dollars) or faces up to two years in jail, possession and use may result in a fine of $ 87, seven days' imprisonment or both of them.

Plastics

Globally, there are 127 countries with some type of plastic bag legislation, of which 91 include prohibitions or restrictions on manufacturing, import and retail distribution, according to UNEP. Africa has 34 countries, followed by Europe with 29 countries.